Right side scores higher (3.5 vs 2.5) due to superior scenic content on both legs. Takeoff offers Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape and geothermal features; landing provides London's iconic Thames, Docklands, and City skyline. Left side is dominated by open Atlantic Ocean during cruise and suburban areas during approach, with minimal landmark density.
Flown KEF to LCY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Keflavik to London is 1,188 miles (1,912 km), a flight of about 2 hours 50 minutes.
North Sea crossing with Scottish coastline visible to the north (Firth of Forth, Edinburgh area), English Midlands and East Anglia below during descent, occasional visibility of the Pennines to the northwest during cruise phase
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from KEF
RIGHTRight side captures Iceland's dramatic volcanic and glacial terrain immediately after departure. Runway 19 departures climb southeastward, offering views of the Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields, geothermal features, and the Atlantic coastline. Left side departs over open ocean with minimal landmarks.
Landing at LCY
RIGHTRight side (north bank) provides superior views during London City approach. Runway 27 arrivals descend over the Thames estuary and Docklands, with the right side facing north toward central London's skyline, the City financial district, and the Thames' distinctive meanders. Left side faces south over suburban areas and open marshland with fewer landmarks.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Keflavik to London. Right side scores higher (3.5 vs 2.5) due to superior scenic content on both legs. Takeoff offers Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape and geothermal features; landing provides London's iconic Thames, Docklands, and City skyline. Left side is dominated by open Atlantic Ocean during cruise and suburban areas during approach, with minimal landmark density.
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 captures Iceland's dramatic volcanic and glacial terrain immediately after departure. Runway 19 departures climb southeastward, offering views of the Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields, geothermal features, and the Atlantic coastline. Left side departs over open ocean with minimal landmarks. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields, Keflavik geothermal area, Atlantic coastline, Fagradalsfjall volcanic region.
What can I see when landing at City in London?
When landing at City (LCY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (north bank) provides superior views during London City approach. Runway 27 arrivals descend over the Thames estuary and Docklands, with the right side facing north toward central London's skyline, the City financial district, and the Thames' distinctive meanders. Left side faces south over suburban areas and open marshland with fewer landmarks. Notable sights include: Thames estuary and meanders, London Docklands high-rises, City of London skyline, Tower Bridge and Tower of London.
How long is the flight from Keflavik to London?
The flight from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to City (LCY) takes about 2 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,188 miles (1,912 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Keflavik to London flight path pass over?
North Sea crossing with Scottish coastline visible to the north (Firth of Forth, Edinburgh area), English Midlands and East Anglia below during descent, occasional visibility of the Pennines to the northwest during cruise phase