EDMONTON — Icelandair will take off from Edmonton to more than 20 destinations in Europe starting March 26, 2014 and continue through January 2015, with service four times a week.

Flights will depart from Edmonton International Airport, one of the largest Canadian airports, serving over 6.5 million passengers per year.

Icelandair also plans service from Vancouver starting May 13, 2014, continuing twice weekly until Oct. 12, 2014.

“We see a bright future ahead with a stronger network and even more opportunities for the many business and leisure travellers flying to Europe from Canada. Icelandair continues to search out markets that will benefit from our presence for both inbound and outbound travellers and further strengthen our role in opening the skies to Europe. The vibrant and academic community of Edmonton is underserved by international airlines and Icelandair will offer a refreshing alternative to Europe from Canada,” said Helgi Mar Bjorgvinsson, SVP of Sales and Marketing for Icelandair.

The Icelandair schedule for 2014 is the biggest in the company’s history and will increase by 18% from 2013 with new gateways, new destinations and added frequency to several cities in North America and Europe. Additionally, three Boeing 757 aircraft will be added, enlarging the fleet from 18 to 21 aircraft.

“Icelandair is one of the world’s most innovative and respected airlines, with an outstanding network across Europe. With our strong economic performance, and our impressive new air terminal, we’re proud that Edmonton has what it takes to attract a world-class international air carrier of Icelandair’s calibre,” said Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel.

In addition to Edmonton, Icelandair also announced seasonal service from Geneva starting May 24, 2014, continuing twice weekly until Sept. 23, 2014.