While takeoff offers dramatic Icelandic volcanic scenery on the right, the landing approach on the left provides extended views of the Research Triangle's geography and the Piedmont landscape during the final 30-40 minutes of descent—more sustained visual interest for the majority of passengers.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic at roughly 55°N latitude. Notable features along the route include the Mid-Atlantic Ridge region (underwater, not visible), the continental shelf west of Ireland and the UK, and the approach to North America over Newfoundland and the Canadian Maritimes. At cruise altitude, the curvature of the great circle route means the flight passes well north of the continental US, with no major visible landmarks during the mid-ocean portion. The approach to RDU begins over the Appalachian foothills in western North Carolina, with the Piedmont plateau becoming visible as descent progresses.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from KEF
RIGHTKEF typically departs runway 02 (northbound) or 20 (southbound). Right-side seats offer views of Reykjanes Peninsula's dramatic coastline and the Atlantic immediately after liftoff, with volcanic terrain and coastal cliffs visible during the initial climb.
Landing at RDU
LEFTRDU typically lands runway 05L/23R or 05R/23L. Left-side seats on approach from the northeast offer views of the Piedmont region's rolling terrain, the Neuse River valley, and the Research Triangle area (Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh) spread across the landscape during descent.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to Raleigh Durham International (RDU)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Keflavik to Raleigh-Durham. While takeoff offers dramatic Icelandic volcanic scenery on the right, the landing approach on the left provides extended views of the Research Triangle's geography and the Piedmont landscape during the final 30-40 minutes of descent—more sustained visual interest for the majority of passengers.
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. KEF typically departs runway 02 (northbound) or 20 (southbound). Right-side seats offer views of Reykjanes Peninsula's dramatic coastline and the Atlantic immediately after liftoff, with volcanic terrain and coastal cliffs visible during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula volcanic landscape, Atlantic Ocean coastline, Grindavík geothermal area (steam visible in clear conditions), Fagradalsfjall volcanic zone.
What can I see when landing at Raleigh Durham International in Raleigh-Durham?
When landing at Raleigh Durham International (RDU), sit on the Left side for the best views. RDU typically lands runway 05L/23R or 05R/23L. Left-side seats on approach from the northeast offer views of the Piedmont region's rolling terrain, the Neuse River valley, and the Research Triangle area (Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh) spread across the landscape during descent. Notable sights include: Neuse River valley and floodplain, Research Triangle urban cluster (Durham and Chapel Hill visible as developed areas), Piedmont rolling topography, Jordan Lake reservoir.
How long is the flight from Keflavik to Raleigh-Durham?
The flight from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to Raleigh Durham International (RDU) takes Approximately 5 hours 45 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Keflavik to Raleigh-Durham flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic at roughly 55°N latitude. Notable features along the route include the Mid-Atlantic Ridge region (underwater, not visible), the continental shelf west of Ireland and the UK, and the approach to North America over Newfoundland and the Canadian Maritimes. At cruise altitude, the curvature of the great circle route means the flight passes well north of the continental US, with no major visible landmarks during the mid-ocean portion. The approach to RDU begins over the Appalachian foothills in western North Carolina, with the Piedmont plateau becoming visible as descent progresses.