The Northern Lights, volcanoes, glaciers, black sand beaches and whale-watching beneath snow-capped mountains have made Iceland one of Europe's most memorable destinations. Image via PexelsStarting October 26, Air China will launch mainland China's first scheduled passenger service to Iceland, operating three times a week from Beijing Capital Airport to Reykjavík via Copenhagen. Although the aircraft makes a scheduled stop in Denmark, passengers remain on the same plane with luggage checked through to Iceland, making the journey simpler than traditional connecting itineraries. Beyond the aurora, autumn and winter also bring snow-covered landscapes, ice caves and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. The journey takes around 15 hours 45 minutes, compared with the 18 hours or more many travellers currently spend reaching Iceland via connecting flights in Europe.