Left seats capture the dramatic Norwegian fjord landscape during departure and provide adequate views during the open-water crossing. While landing views favor the right, the departure experience from Bergen's spectacular fjord system is more visually rewarding and memorable than the volcanic landscape approach to Reykjavik.
Flown BGO to RKV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Bergen to Reykjavik is 906 miles (1,458 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the North Sea northwest from Bergen, passing over open water with no significant landmarks visible. You'll be at cruise altitude (around 25,000-30,000 feet) for most of the crossing. As you approach Iceland, the first visible feature is typically the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic terrain appearing on the horizon, followed by the larger Icelandic landmass. The crossing itself offers little visual interest—mostly gray sea and sky—making the departure and arrival phases the primary viewing opportunities.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from BGO
LEFTBergen Flesland typically departs runway 01 (northbound) or 19 (southbound). Left seats offer views of the Hardangerfjord and surrounding fjord system immediately after takeoff, with the North Sea visible as you climb. Right seats face inland toward less dramatic terrain.
Landing at RKV
RIGHTApproaching Reykjavik typically uses runway 01 or 19. Right seats on approach to runway 01 (northbound landing) offer views of Faxaflói Bay and the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic landscape. On approach to runway 19 (southbound), right seats see the bay and coastal features clearly as you descend toward the airport on the peninsula's northern coast.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bergen Flesland (BGO) to Reykjavik (RKV)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Bergen to Reykjavik. Left seats capture the dramatic Norwegian fjord landscape during departure and provide adequate views during the open-water crossing. While landing views favor the right, the departure experience from Bergen's spectacular fjord system is more visually rewarding and memorable than the volcanic landscape approach to Reykjavik.
What can I see during takeoff from Bergen Flesland in Bergen?
During takeoff from Bergen Flesland (BGO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Bergen Flesland typically departs runway 01 (northbound) or 19 (southbound). Left seats offer views of the Hardangerfjord and surrounding fjord system immediately after takeoff, with the North Sea visible as you climb. Right seats face inland toward less dramatic terrain. Notable sights include: Hardangerfjord, Folgefonna glacier (distant, southeastern horizon), Byfjorden (inner harbor waters), coastal islands of Hordaland.
What can I see when landing at Reykjavik in Reykjavik?
When landing at Reykjavik (RKV), sit on the Right side for the best views. Approaching Reykjavik typically uses runway 01 or 19. Right seats on approach to runway 01 (northbound landing) offer views of Faxaflói Bay and the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic landscape. On approach to runway 19 (southbound), right seats see the bay and coastal features clearly as you descend toward the airport on the peninsula's northern coast. Notable sights include: Faxaflói Bay, Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields (dark volcanic terrain), Mount Esja (across the bay, northern mainland), Reykjavik city lights and harbor.
How long is the flight from Bergen to Reykjavik?
The flight from Bergen Flesland (BGO) to Reykjavik (RKV) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 906 miles (1,458 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Bergen to Reykjavik flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Sea northwest from Bergen, passing over open water with no significant landmarks visible. You'll be at cruise altitude (around 25,000-30,000 feet) for most of the crossing. As you approach Iceland, the first visible feature is typically the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic terrain appearing on the horizon, followed by the larger Icelandic landmass. The crossing itself offers little visual interest—mostly gray sea and sky—making the departure and arrival phases the primary viewing opportunities.