The landing approach into Keflavik offers more dramatic and distinctive geography—Iceland's volcanic landscape is far more visually striking than the departure from Brussels. The left side captures the Reykjanes Peninsula's unique lava fields and Atlantic coastline, making it the superior choice for the full journey.
Flown BRU to KEF? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Brussels to Keflavik is 1,335 miles (2,148 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight crosses the North Sea and approaches Iceland from the southeast. Notable features include the North Sea's open water (no major islands visible at cruise altitude), the transition to Iceland's coastal waters, and the approach to Reykjanes Peninsula's distinctive dark volcanic terrain. The route passes west of Scotland and the Hebrides but these remain too far south to be clearly visible during the northwesterly cruise.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from BRU
RIGHTBrussels typically departs eastbound (Runway 25 or 07 depending on wind), but the northbound climb-out from Runway 25 gives right-seat passengers a view of the Meuse River valley and the transition from Flanders' flat terrain toward the Ardennes plateau. Left seats see only inland Belgium.
Landing at KEF
LEFTKeflavik typically uses Runway 02 (northbound) or 20 (southbound) depending on wind. A northbound approach (Runway 02) descending from the east gives left-seat passengers a dramatic view of Iceland's southwestern coast, the Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields, and the Atlantic Ocean. Right seats see only inland volcanic terrain.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Brussels Natl (BRU) to Keflavik Nas (KEF)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Brussels to Keflavik. The landing approach into Keflavik offers more dramatic and distinctive geography—Iceland's volcanic landscape is far more visually striking than the departure from Brussels. The left side captures the Reykjanes Peninsula's unique lava fields and Atlantic coastline, making it the superior choice for the full journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Brussels Natl in Brussels?
During takeoff from Brussels Natl (BRU), sit on the Right side for the best views. Brussels typically departs eastbound (Runway 25 or 07 depending on wind), but the northbound climb-out from Runway 25 gives right-seat passengers a view of the Meuse River valley and the transition from Flanders' flat terrain toward the Ardennes plateau. Left seats see only inland Belgium. Notable sights include: Meuse River (winding southeast), Brussels-Zaventem airport complex receding below, Ardennes forest edge appearing as darker terrain to the southeast, Antwerp region to the north.
What can I see when landing at Keflavik Nas in Keflavik?
When landing at Keflavik Nas (KEF), sit on the Left side for the best views. Keflavik typically uses Runway 02 (northbound) or 20 (southbound) depending on wind. A northbound approach (Runway 02) descending from the east gives left-seat passengers a dramatic view of Iceland's southwestern coast, the Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields, and the Atlantic Ocean. Right seats see only inland volcanic terrain. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields (dark, textured volcanic rock), Atlantic Ocean and coastal cliffs, Keflavik airport runways and facilities, small settlements of Keflavik and Reykjanesbær.
How long is the flight from Brussels to Keflavik?
The flight from Brussels Natl (BRU) to Keflavik Nas (KEF) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,335 miles (2,148 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Brussels to Keflavik flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the North Sea and approaches Iceland from the southeast. Notable features include the North Sea's open water (no major islands visible at cruise altitude), the transition to Iceland's coastal waters, and the approach to Reykjanes Peninsula's distinctive dark volcanic terrain. The route passes west of Scotland and the Hebrides but these remain too far south to be clearly visible during the northwesterly cruise.