While takeoff offers dramatic fjord scenery on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more visually distinctive features—the contrast between open bay water, dark lava fields, and the urban landscape of Reykjavik makes for more varied and memorable views overall.
Flown EGS to RKV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Egilsstadir to Reykjavik is 236 miles (380 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Iceland at roughly 15,000-20,000 feet. Notable features include the Vatnajokull ice cap region (visible as white expanse to the south of the direct route), numerous smaller glaciers and ice fields, the vast interior plateau with its characteristic dark volcanic terrain and scattered snow patches, and the transition from East Iceland's fjord-carved landscape to the more open terrain approaching the Reykjavik area. The Langjokull and Hofsjokull glaciers may be visible to the north of the direct track depending on exact routing.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from EGS
RIGHTDeparting Egilsstadir heading west, the right side offers views of the dramatic fjord system and coastal terrain immediately surrounding the airport. The left side faces inland toward less visually distinctive plateau.
Landing at RKV
LEFTOn approach to Reykjavik from the east, the left side provides views of the Reykjanes Peninsula's distinctive lava fields and the approach path over Faxafloi Bay. The right side faces toward less visually dramatic inland terrain.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Egilsstadir (EGS) to Reykjavik (RKV)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Egilsstadir to Reykjavik. While takeoff offers dramatic fjord scenery on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more visually distinctive features—the contrast between open bay water, dark lava fields, and the urban landscape of Reykjavik makes for more varied and memorable views overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Egilsstadir in Egilsstadir?
During takeoff from Egilsstadir (EGS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing Egilsstadir heading west, the right side offers views of the dramatic fjord system and coastal terrain immediately surrounding the airport. The left side faces inland toward less visually distinctive plateau. Notable sights include: Egilsstadir fjord (Vopnafjordur area), Gaesir mountain range to the north, Atlantic coastline, glacial valleys descending to sea level.
What can I see when landing at Reykjavik in Reykjavik?
When landing at Reykjavik (RKV), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach to Reykjavik from the east, the left side provides views of the Reykjanes Peninsula's distinctive lava fields and the approach path over Faxafloi Bay. The right side faces toward less visually dramatic inland terrain. Notable sights include: Faxafloi Bay (the large water body), Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields (dark volcanic terrain), Mount Esja to the north of Reykjavik, Reykjavik city and harbor.
How long is the flight from Egilsstadir to Reykjavik?
The flight from Egilsstadir (EGS) to Reykjavik (RKV) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 236 miles (380 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Egilsstadir to Reykjavik flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Iceland at roughly 15,000-20,000 feet. Notable features include the Vatnajokull ice cap region (visible as white expanse to the south of the direct route), numerous smaller glaciers and ice fields, the vast interior plateau with its characteristic dark volcanic terrain and scattered snow patches, and the transition from East Iceland's fjord-carved landscape to the more open terrain approaching the Reykjavik area. The Langjokull and Hofsjokull glaciers may be visible to the north of the direct track depending on exact routing.