A note before you read
If you are searching for a WOW airline review because you want to book a flight, you need to know one fact up front: WOW air, the Icelandic low-cost airline, ceased operations on 28 March 2019. This review is therefore a look back at what flying WOW was like and what happened. It is useful if you have an old booking claim, are researching budget airlines, or are comparing similar carriers today.
What WOW air was
WOW air was founded in Iceland in 2011 and grew quickly by offering very low fares between Europe and North America via Reykjavik. A cheap fare from the United States to Europe with a stopover in Iceland became popular with backpackers and weekend travellers. The airline used the same basic model as other budget carriers: low base fares and extra charges for almost everything else.
How the fares worked
WOW’s headline fares were often very low, which attracted many first-time transatlantic travellers. The catch was that many things cost extra:
- Checked bags
- Carry-on bags above a small size
- Seat selection
- Meals and drinks
- Changes to bookings
When you added these, the final price was often much closer to that of other airlines. This is a common feature of budget flying, and the lesson still applies to carriers today: always compare the total price.
What passengers said
Reviews of WOW air were mixed. Many travellers praised the low prices, friendly crew and the chance to see Iceland on a stopover. Common complaints concerned:
- Strict baggage rules and fees
- Delays and cancellations
- Limited legroom
- Customer service that was hard to reach
- Changes to flight times
Reports like these varied by route and by period. The airline expanded quickly, which put pressure on its operations.
The Iceland stopover appeal
One of WOW’s selling points was the possibility of a stopover in Iceland, giving passengers a chance to visit Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon or the Golden Circle for a few days. That formula remains popular with other airlines today, so if you liked the idea, you can still find similar options.
What went wrong
WOW air struggled financially for some time. According to news reports from the time, it had difficulty raising money, rescue talks with another Icelandic carrier fell through, and rising fuel costs and heavy competition added to the strain. On 28 March 2019, the airline announced it had stopped flying, leaving passengers stranded in Europe and North America. Thousands of tickets were affected, and about 1,500 staff lost their jobs. You can read the original coverage in the archive of The Points Guy.
If you had a booking
For anyone who holds an old booking, the airline no longer exists, so claims typically go through the payment provider, travel insurance or the bankruptcy process. In most cases, deadlines have long passed. If you still have an unresolved case, contact your card issuer or the relevant consumer authority for advice.
Lessons for flying budget airlines
Compare the total cost
Add bags, seats and any extras before you decide.
Pay by credit card
In many countries, card payments offer extra protection if an airline fails.
Buy travel insurance
Some policies cover airline failure, but read the terms carefully.
Keep flexible plans
If you book a very cheap fare, leave room in your schedule in case of changes.
Watch the news
Airlines in trouble often show warning signs, such as delayed payments or route cuts.
Alternatives for Iceland trips today
Icelandair is the main Icelandic carrier, and Play, a newer low-cost airline, has also operated routes to Iceland, though you should check its current status. Other European and North American airlines serve Reykjavik too, so compare schedules and fares.
What to check on any budget airline
Before you book a cheap flight today, read the baggage allowance, check which airport you actually fly from and look at the connection times. Cheap airports can be far from the city, and extra transfer costs matter. Also check how to reach customer service and whether the airline gives refunds or vouchers if a flight is cancelled.
Final thoughts
A WOW airline review today is more about history and lessons than about a flight you can book. The carrier offered cheap fares and a fun stopover, and then collapsed under heavy costs. If you plan a trip to Iceland, check which airlines operate now, read the baggage rules and compare the full price.
Related reading: Best Things to Do in Brooklyn: A Local-Style Guide.
