About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to Keflavik Nas (KEF)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Washington to Keflavik. Left side wins both departure and arrival. During the transatlantic crossing, the left side also faces south toward Greenland's southern tip and the Denmark Strait if the routing goes far enough north, while the right side faces north into open Arctic waters. Left is the clear choice for the full flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Washington Dulles International in Washington?
During takeoff from Washington Dulles International (IAD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Dulles typically departs on runway 01R/19L or 01L/19R. Northbound departures on runway 01 swing left (west then north), putting the left side over the Virginia piedmont and eventually offering a clear view back toward the DC metro area including the Potomac River corridor. The right side faces east toward suburban sprawl with less geographic interest. Notable sights include: Potomac River corridor, Blue Ridge Mountains to the west, Dulles Access Road and Tysons Corner urban cluster, Shenandoah Valley in the far distance.
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 lands on runway 28 (westbound) or runway 10 (eastbound). On the common runway 28 approach from the east, the left side faces south over the Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields and the Atlantic coastline, with Reykjavik visible in the distance to the northeast. The right side faces north over open ocean with little to see. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields, Reykjavik city and Faxafloi Bay, Mount Esja across the bay, Atlantic coastline of the peninsula.
How long is the flight from Washington to Keflavik?
The flight from Washington Dulles International (IAD) to Keflavik Nas (KEF) takes Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
What does the Washington to Keflavik flight path pass over?
The flight typically tracks northeast over Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, then crosses the North Atlantic. Depending on routing, the southern tip of Greenland (Cape Farewell) may be visible on the left side. The Denmark Strait between Greenland and Iceland is crossed in the final hour. Sea ice may be visible near Greenland in winter months. The North Atlantic below is largely open ocean with occasional cloud systems.