Right side captures the Alps during departure and maintains better views of Greenland's east coast and Iceland's interior highlands during the transatlantic crossing. Left side offers the volcanic landscape on arrival, but the outbound scenery is more dramatic and sustained.
Flown MUC to RKV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Munich to Reykjavik is 1,658 miles (2,669 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the North Sea, then the Norwegian Sea. Midway, passengers may glimpse the Faroe Islands (if visible through weather), and as the aircraft approaches Iceland, the Denmark Strait separates Greenland (to the left/northwest) from Iceland. The approach to Iceland reveals the Mid-Atlantic Ridge's volcanic geology—Iceland sits on this tectonic boundary, making its landscape distinctive. Greenland's ice sheet and glaciated terrain may be visible on the left side during the final hours of flight, appearing as white expanses on the horizon.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MUC
RIGHTRight side offers views of the Alps as the aircraft climbs northwestward from Munich. The Bavarian foothills and alpine peaks are visible during the initial climb phase before heading toward the North Sea.
Landing at RKV
LEFTLeft side provides views of Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape and coastal features during approach. The Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields and the North Atlantic coastline are visible on descent into Keflavík International Airport.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Munich (MUC) to Reykjavik (RKV)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Munich to Reykjavik. Right side captures the Alps during departure and maintains better views of Greenland's east coast and Iceland's interior highlands during the transatlantic crossing. Left side offers the volcanic landscape on arrival, but the outbound scenery is more dramatic and sustained.
What can I see during takeoff from Munich in Munich?
During takeoff from Munich (MUC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers views of the Alps as the aircraft climbs northwestward from Munich. The Bavarian foothills and alpine peaks are visible during the initial climb phase before heading toward the North Sea. Notable sights include: Bavarian Alps (southeast), Isar River valley (below airport), Lake Starnberg (southwest), Ammersee (west).
What can I see when landing at Reykjavik in Reykjavik?
When landing at Reykjavik (RKV), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides views of Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape and coastal features during approach. The Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields and the North Atlantic coastline are visible on descent into Keflavík International Airport. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields (dark volcanic terrain), Atlantic coastline and fjords, Esja mountain (northeast of Reykjavik), Kollafjörður bay.
How long is the flight from Munich to Reykjavik?
The flight from Munich (MUC) to Reykjavik (RKV) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,658 miles (2,669 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Munich to Reykjavik flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Sea, then the Norwegian Sea. Midway, passengers may glimpse the Faroe Islands (if visible through weather), and as the aircraft approaches Iceland, the Denmark Strait separates Greenland (to the left/northwest) from Iceland. The approach to Iceland reveals the Mid-Atlantic Ridge's volcanic geology—Iceland sits on this tectonic boundary, making its landscape distinctive. Greenland's ice sheet and glaciated terrain may be visible on the left side during the final hours of flight, appearing as white expanses on the horizon.