While takeoff offers dramatic volcanic scenery on the right, the landing approach into Edinburgh provides more varied and recognizable landmarks. Left-side seats capture the Firth of Forth, the city's iconic volcanic geography, and the Pentland Hills—a more rewarding visual experience overall.
Flown KEF to EDI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Keflavik to Edinburgh is 860 miles (1,385 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the North Sea at roughly 20,000-25,000 feet. Midway, you'll pass over open ocean with no significant landmarks visible. The Scottish coast becomes visible approximately 30 minutes before landing—the Fife coastline and East Lothian beaches appear first on the left (north) side, followed by the Firth of Forth estuary as you descend toward Edinburgh.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from KEF
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Reykjanes Peninsula's dramatic coastline and the geothermal landscape immediately west and south of Keflavik. The peninsula's volcanic terrain and Atlantic cliffs are striking during the initial climb-out.
Landing at EDI
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Edinburgh. You'll see the Firth of Forth estuary, the Pentland Hills south of the city, and Edinburgh's urban layout spread across its volcanic hills as you approach from the northwest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to Edinburgh (EDI)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Keflavik to Edinburgh. While takeoff offers dramatic volcanic scenery on the right, the landing approach into Edinburgh provides more varied and recognizable landmarks. Left-side seats capture the Firth of Forth, the city's iconic volcanic geography, and the Pentland Hills—a more rewarding visual experience overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Keflavik Nas in Keflavik?
During takeoff from Keflavik Nas (KEF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Reykjanes Peninsula's dramatic coastline and the geothermal landscape immediately west and south of Keflavik. The peninsula's volcanic terrain and Atlantic cliffs are striking during the initial climb-out. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula volcanic plateau, Atlantic coastline with sea cliffs, Kleifarvatn geothermal area, Fagradalsfjall volcanic zone.
What can I see when landing at Edinburgh in Edinburgh?
When landing at Edinburgh (EDI), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Edinburgh. You'll see the Firth of Forth estuary, the Pentland Hills south of the city, and Edinburgh's urban layout spread across its volcanic hills as you approach from the northwest. Notable sights include: Firth of Forth estuary and bridges, Pentland Hills, Edinburgh's Old Town and castle ridge, Lothian coastal plain.
How long is the flight from Keflavik to Edinburgh?
The flight from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to Edinburgh (EDI) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 860 miles (1,385 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Keflavik to Edinburgh flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Sea at roughly 20,000-25,000 feet. Midway, you'll pass over open ocean with no significant landmarks visible. The Scottish coast becomes visible approximately 30 minutes before landing—the Fife coastline and East Lothian beaches appear first on the left (north) side, followed by the Firth of Forth estuary as you descend toward Edinburgh.