About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Denver International (DEN) to Reykjavik (RKV)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Denver to Reykjavik. The left side wins overall due to the spectacular Rocky Mountain Front Range departure view, which is one of the most dramatic urban-to-mountain transitions in North American aviation. The landing views on the right are excellent but more subtle. Over the Atlantic mid-flight, neither side has a meaningful advantage, but the Greenland ice sheet and eastern coastline may be faintly visible on the left side depending on exact routing.
What can I see during takeoff from Denver International in Denver?
During takeoff from Denver International (DEN), sit on the Left side for the best views. DEN typically departs westbound on runway 16R/34L or 17R/35L. On a northeast-bound departure toward Iceland, the aircraft will bank left, putting the Rocky Mountains directly on the left side. You get a clear view of the Front Range including Longs Peak, Mount Evans, and the entire Denver metro grid below. Notable sights include: Front Range Rocky Mountains (Longs Peak, Mount Evans), Denver city grid and downtown skyline, Cherry Creek Reservoir, Red Rocks Amphitheatre area to the southwest.
What can I see when landing at Reykjavik in Reykjavik?
When landing at Reykjavik (RKV), sit on the Right side for the best views. Reykjavik domestic airport (RKV) sits on the western edge of the city. Arriving from the southeast, the aircraft typically approaches from over the interior highlands and descends over Faxaflói Bay. The right side gives you the Reykjavik peninsula, Hallgrímskirkja church visible in the city, and the Snæfellsjökull glacier across the bay to the northwest. Notable sights include: Reykjavik city peninsula and harbor, Faxaflói Bay, Snæfellsjökull glacier on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Mount Esja ridge north of the city.
How long is the flight from Denver to Reykjavik?
The flight from Denver International (DEN) to Reykjavik (RKV) takes Approximately 8 to 9.5 hours depending on winds and routing.
What does the Denver to Reykjavik flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northeast over the Canadian prairies, then over Hudson Bay or Labrador depending on routing, followed by the Labrador Sea. The southern tip of Greenland (Cape Farewell) may be visible on the left side, with the Greenland ice sheet as a vast white expanse. The Denmark Strait separates Greenland from Iceland, and the volcanic highlands of Iceland's interior become visible on descent, including the Vatnajökull ice cap to the southeast.