About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Reykjavik (RKV) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Reykjavik to London. Left side wins at both ends of the flight. Over the ocean cruise there is little to differentiate sides, but the left seat delivers Esja and Reykjavik on departure and the Thames and London on arrival — the two most visually rewarding moments of the route.
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's runway 19 departure heads south over Faxaflói Bay, and the left side faces east toward Reykjavik city and the dramatic Esja mountain massif rising directly behind the capital. You get a clear view of the city layout, the harbor, and Esja's flat-topped ridgeline all at once during climb-out. Notable sights include: Mount Esja (914m flat-topped massif northeast of city), Reykjavik harbor and old town grid, Faxaflói Bay coastline, Hallgrímskirkja church tower visible in the city center.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Heathrow's westerly landings on runway 27L/27R bring aircraft in from the east over central London. The left side faces south, giving a clear view of the Thames snaking through the city, with the central London skyline — Canary Wharf, the City, and the South Bank — laid out below during the approach. The right side faces north over suburban west London with far less to see. Notable sights include: River Thames and its distinctive bends through central London, Canary Wharf tower cluster to the east, Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park to the southwest, Wembley Stadium arch visible to the north-northwest.
How long is the flight from Reykjavik to London?
The flight from Reykjavik (RKV) to Heathrow (LHR) takes Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours.
What does the Reykjavik to London flight path pass over?
The flight tracks southeast over the North Atlantic, crossing the Faroe Islands roughly 45 minutes after departure — visible as small dark specks in the ocean on clear days. The Scottish Highlands and Orkney Islands appear on the horizon as the aircraft descends toward England, followed by the Pennines and eventually the English Midlands before the London approach.