While takeoff favors left seats, the landing approach on runway 28 provides superior views of Iceland's northern geography—the fjord system, coastal features, and the approach into Akureyri itself. Right seats capture the more dramatic final descent.
Flown RKV to AEY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Reykjavik to Akureyri is 155 miles (249 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.
The flight path crosses north over central Iceland, passing east of the Langjökull glacier region and over the volcanic highlands. You'll see the transition from the lava plains near Reykjavik to the more mountainous terrain of central Iceland, with scattered ice caps visible on clear days. The route follows a roughly northeasterly heading, crossing the interior plateau before descending toward the northern coast and Akureyri.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from RKV
LEFTRKV typically departs to the north on runway 01, and left seats face west toward Reykjanes Peninsula and the Atlantic. You'll see the city sprawl of Reykjavik and the distinctive volcanic landscape immediately west of the airport.
Landing at AEY
RIGHTAEY typically lands on runway 28 (westbound), so right seats face north toward the Arctic coast and Húnaflói Bay. The approach offers views of the rugged northern coastline and the transition from inland terrain to the sea.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Reykjavik (RKV) to Akureyri (AEY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Reykjavik to Akureyri. While takeoff favors left seats, the landing approach on runway 28 provides superior views of Iceland's northern geography—the fjord system, coastal features, and the approach into Akureyri itself. Right seats capture the more dramatic final descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Reykjavik in Reykjavik?
During takeoff from Reykjavik (RKV), sit on the Left side for the best views. RKV typically departs to the north on runway 01, and left seats face west toward Reykjanes Peninsula and the Atlantic. You'll see the city sprawl of Reykjavik and the distinctive volcanic landscape immediately west of the airport. Notable sights include: Reykjavik city center and harbor, Reykjanes Peninsula volcanic terrain, Mount Esja to the northeast across the bay, Faxaflói Bay.
What can I see when landing at Akureyri in Akureyri?
When landing at Akureyri (AEY), sit on the Right side for the best views. AEY typically lands on runway 28 (westbound), so right seats face north toward the Arctic coast and Húnaflói Bay. The approach offers views of the rugged northern coastline and the transition from inland terrain to the sea. Notable sights include: Húnaflói Bay, the northern coastal cliffs and fjord system, Akureyri town nestled in Eyjafjörður, the volcanic highlands inland.
How long is the flight from Reykjavik to Akureyri?
The flight from Reykjavik (RKV) to Akureyri (AEY) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 155 miles (249 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Reykjavik to Akureyri flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses north over central Iceland, passing east of the Langjökull glacier region and over the volcanic highlands. You'll see the transition from the lava plains near Reykjavik to the more mountainous terrain of central Iceland, with scattered ice caps visible on clear days. The route follows a roughly northeasterly heading, crossing the interior plateau before descending toward the northern coast and Akureyri.