While takeoff offers tropical island scenery, the landing approach to Svalbard provides far more dramatic and visually distinctive geography—deep fjords, glaciers, and Arctic peaks create a more memorable window experience than the relatively flat Philippine departure.
Flown ILO to LYR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Iloilo to Svalbard is 5,721 miles (9,206 km), a flight of about 11 hours 10 minutes.
This routing crosses the Eurasian continent. Notable features along the typical northwesterly path include: the South China Sea and Strait of Malacca (early leg), the Andaman Sea, the Indian subcontinent and Himalayas (if routed via Central Asia), the Caspian Sea region, the Ural Mountains, and Western Siberia's vast plains and river systems (Ob, Yenisei rivers). The final approach crosses the Barents Sea toward Spitsbergen's fjord-carved western coast.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ILO
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Panay Island coastline and the Iloilo Strait as you climb northwestward. You'll see the irregular shoreline and shallow waters that define this region's geography during the initial climb-out.
Landing at LYR
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during approach to Longyearbyen. You'll see the dramatic Spitsbergen fjord system, glaciers, and snow-covered peaks as you descend into the Arctic archipelago from the south.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Iloilo International Airport (ILO) to Svalbard Longyear (LYR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Iloilo to Svalbard. While takeoff offers tropical island scenery, the landing approach to Svalbard provides far more dramatic and visually distinctive geography—deep fjords, glaciers, and Arctic peaks create a more memorable window experience than the relatively flat Philippine departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Iloilo International Airport in Iloilo?
During takeoff from Iloilo International Airport (ILO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Panay Island coastline and the Iloilo Strait as you climb northwestward. You'll see the irregular shoreline and shallow waters that define this region's geography during the initial climb-out. Notable sights include: Panay Island coastline, Iloilo Strait, Guimaras Island (to the south), Negros Island (distant, to the southeast).
What can I see when landing at Svalbard Longyear in Svalbard?
When landing at Svalbard Longyear (LYR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during approach to Longyearbyen. You'll see the dramatic Spitsbergen fjord system, glaciers, and snow-covered peaks as you descend into the Arctic archipelago from the south. Notable sights include: Isfjorden (main fjord), Spitsbergen's western peaks and glaciers, Adventfjorden, Arctic Ocean ice edge (seasonal).
How long is the flight from Iloilo to Svalbard?
The flight from Iloilo International Airport (ILO) to Svalbard Longyear (LYR) takes about 11 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,721 miles (9,206 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Iloilo to Svalbard flight path pass over?
This routing crosses the Eurasian continent. Notable features along the typical northwesterly path include: the South China Sea and Strait of Malacca (early leg), the Andaman Sea, the Indian subcontinent and Himalayas (if routed via Central Asia), the Caspian Sea region, the Ural Mountains, and Western Siberia's vast plains and river systems (Ob, Yenisei rivers). The final approach crosses the Barents Sea toward Spitsbergen's fjord-carved western coast.