While takeoff offers river and plains views, the landing approach into Reykjavik provides far more dramatic and distinctive scenery—Iceland's volcanic landscape and coastal features are visually striking and unique, making the right side the better choice for the overall journey.
Flown WAW to RKV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Warsaw to Reykjavik is 1,724 miles (2,774 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
North Sea and Norwegian Sea crossing (no land visible for extended period); approaching Iceland, the Mid-Atlantic Ridge influences underwater topography but is not visible; the transition from European continental shelf to Icelandic volcanic plateau occurs over open water; on clear days, the Faroe Islands may be visible to the north as you pass, though not directly on the standard flight path
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from WAW
LEFTLeft side captures the Vistula River valley and Warsaw's urban sprawl as you climb northwestward. The river's distinctive meanders are clearly visible from 5,000–10,000 feet, and you'll see the city grid fade into agricultural plains.
Landing at RKV
RIGHTRight side offers the best views during descent into Reykjavik. You'll see Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape, including the Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields and geothermal features, plus the approach over Faxaflói Bay with its distinctive coastline.
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 Okecie (WAW) to Reykjavik (RKV)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Warsaw to Reykjavik. While takeoff offers river and plains views, the landing approach into Reykjavik provides far more dramatic and distinctive scenery—Iceland's volcanic landscape and coastal features are visually striking and unique, making the right side the better choice for the overall journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Okecie in Warsaw?
During takeoff from Okecie (WAW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Vistula River valley and Warsaw's urban sprawl as you climb northwestward. The river's distinctive meanders are clearly visible from 5,000–10,000 feet, and you'll see the city grid fade into agricultural plains. Notable sights include: Vistula River (meandering through Warsaw), Warsaw urban area, Masovian Lowlands extending north, Baltic coastal plains on distant horizon.
What can I see when landing at Reykjavik in Reykjavik?
When landing at Reykjavik (RKV), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers the best views during descent into Reykjavik. You'll see Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape, including the Reykjanes Peninsula's lava fields and geothermal features, plus the approach over Faxaflói Bay with its distinctive coastline. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields (dark volcanic terrain), Faxaflói Bay coastline, Reykjavik city and harbor, distant Snæfellsjökull glacier (visible on clear days to the north).
How long is the flight from Warsaw to Reykjavik?
The flight from Okecie (WAW) to Reykjavik (RKV) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,724 miles (2,774 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Warsaw to Reykjavik flight path pass over?
North Sea and Norwegian Sea crossing (no land visible for extended period); approaching Iceland, the Mid-Atlantic Ridge influences underwater topography but is not visible; the transition from European continental shelf to Icelandic volcanic plateau occurs over open water; on clear days, the Faroe Islands may be visible to the north as you pass, though not directly on the standard flight path