The departure from Keflavik offers more visually distinctive scenery—Iceland's volcanic terrain, glaciers, and dramatic coastline are far more striking than the flat prairie approach to Winnipeg. Left side captures the most memorable portion of the flight.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic at high altitude (typically 33,000-35,000 feet). From cruising altitude, you'll see the open ocean for most of the transatlantic segment. As you approach North America, the southern tip of Greenland's ice sheet may be visible on the left (north) side around 4-5 hours into the flight, appearing as a white expanse on the horizon. The Davis Strait and Labrador Sea occupy the middle portion of the crossing. As you descend toward Winnipeg, the Canadian Shield's rocky terrain gradually transitions to the flatter boreal forest and then to the prairie landscape of Manitoba. The Hudson Bay region lies to the north of your flight path but typically remains beyond the visible horizon during cruise.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to Winnipeg International (YWG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Keflavik to Winnipeg. The departure from Keflavik offers more visually distinctive scenery—Iceland's volcanic terrain, glaciers, and dramatic coastline are far more striking than the flat prairie approach to Winnipeg. Left side captures the most memorable portion of the flight.
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. Left side offers immediate views of Iceland's dramatic volcanic and glacial landscape. You'll see the Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields and the Atlantic coastline as the aircraft climbs out over the southwestern coast. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields, Atlantic Ocean coastline, Fagradalsfjall volcanic region, Keflavik town below.
What can I see when landing at Winnipeg International in Winnipeg?
When landing at Winnipeg International (YWG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Canadian prairies and the Red River valley as you descend into Winnipeg. You'll see the flat agricultural landscape and the river system that defines the approach corridor. Notable sights include: Red River, Winnipeg city grid, Lake Winnipeg to the north, agricultural prairie grid pattern.
How long is the flight from Keflavik to Winnipeg?
The flight from Keflavik Nas (KEF) to Winnipeg International (YWG) takes Approximately 5 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Keflavik to Winnipeg flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic at high altitude (typically 33,000-35,000 feet). From cruising altitude, you'll see the open ocean for most of the transatlantic segment. As you approach North America, the southern tip of Greenland's ice sheet may be visible on the left (north) side around 4-5 hours into the flight, appearing as a white expanse on the horizon. The Davis Strait and Labrador Sea occupy the middle portion of the crossing. As you descend toward Winnipeg, the Canadian Shield's rocky terrain gradually transitions to the flatter boreal forest and then to the prairie landscape of Manitoba. The Hudson Bay region lies to the north of your flight path but typically remains beyond the visible horizon during cruise.