While takeoff from KEF favors the left, the landing approach to GOH from the right provides more dramatic and sustained views of Greenland's glaciated landscape and fjord system. The approach descent offers superior visibility of the ice sheet and coastal features that define this destination.
Flown KEF to GOH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Keflavik to Godthaab is 870 miles (1,401 km), a flight of about 3 hours.
The flight crosses the Denmark Strait between Iceland and Greenland. Midway, you'll pass over open ocean with occasional views of pack ice and icebergs, particularly in summer months. The transition from Iceland's volcanic terrain to Greenland's glaciated landscape is gradual but becomes pronounced as you approach the Greenlandic coast. The ice sheet's edge becomes visible roughly 30-40 minutes before landing at GOH.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from KEF
LEFTKEF typically departs runway 02 (northbound) or 20 (southbound). Left seats offer views of the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic terrain and the Atlantic coastline as you climb out. The dramatic lava fields and coastal cliffs are most visible from the left side during northbound departures.
Landing at GOH
RIGHTApproach to GOH typically uses runway 07 or 25 depending on wind. Right seats provide excellent views of Nuuk's fjord system and the Greenlandic ice sheet as you descend. The Davis Strait and the dramatic glaciated terrain surrounding the capital are most visible from the right side during standard approaches.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to Nuuk (GOH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Keflavik to Godthaab. While takeoff from KEF favors the left, the landing approach to GOH from the right provides more dramatic and sustained views of Greenland's glaciated landscape and fjord system. The approach descent offers superior visibility of the ice sheet and coastal features that define this destination.
What can I see during takeoff from Keflavik Nas in Keflavik?
During takeoff from Keflavik Nas (KEF), sit on the Left side for the best views. KEF typically departs runway 02 (northbound) or 20 (southbound). Left seats offer views of the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic terrain and the Atlantic coastline as you climb out. The dramatic lava fields and coastal cliffs are most visible from the left side during northbound departures. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields, Atlantic Ocean to the west, Fagradalsfjall volcanic region, Grindavík town area.
What can I see when landing at Nuuk in Godthaab?
When landing at Nuuk (GOH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Approach to GOH typically uses runway 07 or 25 depending on wind. Right seats provide excellent views of Nuuk's fjord system and the Greenlandic ice sheet as you descend. The Davis Strait and the dramatic glaciated terrain surrounding the capital are most visible from the right side during standard approaches. Notable sights include: Nuuk fjord system, Greenlandic ice sheet margin, Davis Strait, Sermitsiaq mountain (distinctive peak near Nuuk).
How long is the flight from Keflavik to Godthaab?
The flight from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to Nuuk (GOH) takes about 3 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 870 miles (1,401 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Keflavik to Godthaab flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Denmark Strait between Iceland and Greenland. Midway, you'll pass over open ocean with occasional views of pack ice and icebergs, particularly in summer months. The transition from Iceland's volcanic terrain to Greenland's glaciated landscape is gradual but becomes pronounced as you approach the Greenlandic coast. The ice sheet's edge becomes visible roughly 30-40 minutes before landing at GOH.