While the left offers good departure views of the Helsinki region and Baltic coastline, the right side delivers superior scenery during the critical landing phase over Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape. The Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields and geothermal features are among the most visually striking elements of this route.
Flown HEL to RKV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Helsinki to Reykjavik is 1,497 miles (2,409 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the North Sea and Norwegian Sea, passing over open ocean for most of the journey. Depending on routing, you may see the Norwegian coast (Bergen region or further north) on the left during the initial westbound leg. The majority of the flight occurs over water with no significant landmarks visible. As you approach Iceland from the southeast, the first landfall is typically the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic terrain, which becomes visible about 30-40 minutes before landing.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from HEL
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Baltic Sea coastline and the greater Helsinki metropolitan area as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the archipelago and water features that dominate the departure corridor.
Landing at RKV
RIGHTRight side provides the best views during descent into Reykjavik. You'll see Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape, including the Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields and geothermal features as you approach from the southeast.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Helsinki Vantaa (HEL) to Reykjavik (RKV)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Helsinki to Reykjavik. While the left offers good departure views of the Helsinki region and Baltic coastline, the right side delivers superior scenery during the critical landing phase over Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape. The Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields and geothermal features are among the most visually striking elements of this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Helsinki Vantaa in Helsinki?
During takeoff from Helsinki Vantaa (HEL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Baltic Sea coastline and the greater Helsinki metropolitan area as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the archipelago and water features that dominate the departure corridor. Notable sights include: Baltic Sea, Helsinki metropolitan area and harbor, Finnish archipelago (Saaristo), Gulf of Finland coastline.
What can I see when landing at Reykjavik in Reykjavik?
When landing at Reykjavik (RKV), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides the best views during descent into Reykjavik. You'll see Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape, including the Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields and geothermal features as you approach from the southeast. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields, Fagradalsfjall volcanic region, Atlantic Ocean, Iceland's rugged coastline.
How long is the flight from Helsinki to Reykjavik?
The flight from Helsinki Vantaa (HEL) to Reykjavik (RKV) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,497 miles (2,409 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Helsinki to Reykjavik flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Sea and Norwegian Sea, passing over open ocean for most of the journey. Depending on routing, you may see the Norwegian coast (Bergen region or further north) on the left during the initial westbound leg. The majority of the flight occurs over water with no significant landmarks visible. As you approach Iceland from the southeast, the first landfall is typically the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic terrain, which becomes visible about 30-40 minutes before landing.