While takeoff offers coastal views, the landing approach provides superior scenery with direct views of Vatnajökull ice cap and the Skaftafell glacier system—two of Iceland's most visually striking features. The left side captures the dramatic transition from ice to fjord that defines East Iceland.
Flown RKV to EGS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Reykjavik to Egilsstadir is 236 miles (380 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.
The flight crosses central Iceland's interior plateau, passing over the Langjökull ice cap region and the volcanic highlands. The route traverses Iceland's north-central terrain with views of glaciated peaks, volcanic calderas, and the transition from southwest to northeast geography. Notable midpoint features include the Hofsjökull ice cap area and the approach to the Vatnajökull system as you near East Iceland.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from RKV
RIGHTDeparting Reykjavik heading northeast, right-side seats face the Reykjanes Peninsula and the Atlantic coastline. You'll see the volcanic terrain and coastal cliffs that define southwest Iceland's geography as you climb out.
Landing at EGS
LEFTApproaching Egilsstadir from the southwest, left-side seats offer views of the Vatnajökull ice cap and the dramatic fjord landscape of East Iceland. The descent path reveals the Skaftafell region and the approach to the Eastfjords.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Reykjavik (RKV) to Egilsstadir (EGS)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Reykjavik to Egilsstadir. While takeoff offers coastal views, the landing approach provides superior scenery with direct views of Vatnajökull ice cap and the Skaftafell glacier system—two of Iceland's most visually striking features. The left side captures the dramatic transition from ice to fjord that defines East Iceland.
What can I see during takeoff from Reykjavik in Reykjavik?
During takeoff from Reykjavik (RKV), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing Reykjavik heading northeast, right-side seats face the Reykjanes Peninsula and the Atlantic coastline. You'll see the volcanic terrain and coastal cliffs that define southwest Iceland's geography as you climb out. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula volcanic landscape, Atlantic coastline with black sand beaches, Fagradalsfjall volcanic region, Faxaflói Bay.
What can I see when landing at Egilsstadir in Egilsstadir?
When landing at Egilsstadir (EGS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Approaching Egilsstadir from the southwest, left-side seats offer views of the Vatnajökull ice cap and the dramatic fjord landscape of East Iceland. The descent path reveals the Skaftafell region and the approach to the Eastfjords. Notable sights include: Vatnajökull ice cap, Skaftafell glacier outlet, Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, East Iceland fjord system.
How long is the flight from Reykjavik to Egilsstadir?
The flight from Reykjavik (RKV) to Egilsstadir (EGS) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 236 miles (380 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Reykjavik to Egilsstadir flight path pass over?
The flight crosses central Iceland's interior plateau, passing over the Langjökull ice cap region and the volcanic highlands. The route traverses Iceland's north-central terrain with views of glaciated peaks, volcanic calderas, and the transition from southwest to northeast geography. Notable midpoint features include the Hofsjökull ice cap area and the approach to the Vatnajökull system as you near East Iceland.