While takeoff offers dramatic Icelandic volcanic scenery on the left, the landing approach into Luton provides more varied and visually interesting geography on the right—the Thames estuary, London's urban landscape, and the Chiltern Hills offer greater scenic diversity than the relatively uniform lava fields visible during departure.
Flown RKV to LTN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Reykjavik to London is 1,147 miles (1,845 km), a flight of about 2 hours 55 minutes.
The flight crosses the North Sea at cruising altitude (typically 28,000-35,000 feet), where little is visible except open water. The Scottish coast and Southern Uplands may be briefly visible if the flight path passes near them, though most of the mid-flight segment is over open ocean. As you approach England, the East Anglian coast becomes visible, followed by the gradual transition to the Midlands and southeast England before descent into Luton.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from RKV
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of Reykjavik's harbor, the surrounding lava fields, and Mount Esja to the northeast as you climb out. The city and its distinctive geography are best framed from the left wing.
Landing at LTN
RIGHTRight-side seats provide excellent views of the Thames estuary, London's sprawl, and the Chiltern Hills as you descend into Luton. The approach path typically brings these features into clear view on the right side.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Reykjavik (RKV) to Luton (LTN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Reykjavik to London. While takeoff offers dramatic Icelandic volcanic scenery on the left, the landing approach into Luton provides more varied and visually interesting geography on the right—the Thames estuary, London's urban landscape, and the Chiltern Hills offer greater scenic diversity than the relatively uniform lava fields visible during departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Reykjavik in Reykjavik?
During takeoff from Reykjavik (RKV), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of Reykjavik's harbor, the surrounding lava fields, and Mount Esja to the northeast as you climb out. The city and its distinctive geography are best framed from the left wing. Notable sights include: Reykjavik city center and Old Harbor, Mount Esja (900m peak northeast of the city), Kollafjörður bay, extensive dark basalt lava fields extending inland.
What can I see when landing at Luton in London?
When landing at Luton (LTN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats provide excellent views of the Thames estuary, London's sprawl, and the Chiltern Hills as you descend into Luton. The approach path typically brings these features into clear view on the right side. Notable sights include: The Thames estuary and its winding course, Greater London's urban expanse, the Chiltern Hills escarpment to the northwest, Luton town and surrounding Bedfordshire countryside.
How long is the flight from Reykjavik to London?
The flight from Reykjavik (RKV) to Luton (LTN) takes about 2 hours 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,147 miles (1,845 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Reykjavik to London flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the North Sea at cruising altitude (typically 28,000-35,000 feet), where little is visible except open water. The Scottish coast and Southern Uplands may be briefly visible if the flight path passes near them, though most of the mid-flight segment is over open ocean. As you approach England, the East Anglian coast becomes visible, followed by the gradual transition to the Midlands and southeast England before descent into Luton.