While takeoff favors the left side, the landing approach into Reykjavik on the right side is more visually rewarding, offering dramatic volcanic terrain and coastal views. The right side captures the most distinctive Icelandic geography during descent.
Flown YMX to RKV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Montreal to Reykjavik is 2,335 miles (3,758 km), a flight of about 5 hours 15 minutes.
The flight crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 3.5 hours with no major landmarks visible—primarily open ocean. The aircraft will pass south of Greenland (not visible at typical cruise altitude of 35,000 feet unless weather permits glimpses of the ice sheet on the horizon). The approach to Iceland begins around 200 miles west of Reykjavik, where the first signs of land appear as the volcanic plateau and coastal features emerge from the ocean.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from YMX
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Laurentian Mountains as the aircraft climbs northeastward from Mirabel. The terrain rises noticeably to the north and west, creating visible ridgelines and forested slopes during the initial climb phase.
Landing at RKV
RIGHTRight side provides views of Iceland's western coastline and Reykjavik's approach path. The descent into Keflavík typically follows a southwestern approach, giving right-side passengers clear views of the Atlantic coastline, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the city itself.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Montreal International Mirabel (YMX) to Reykjavik (RKV)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Montreal to Reykjavik. While takeoff favors the left side, the landing approach into Reykjavik on the right side is more visually rewarding, offering dramatic volcanic terrain and coastal views. The right side captures the most distinctive Icelandic geography during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Montreal International Mirabel in Montreal?
During takeoff from Montreal International Mirabel (YMX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Laurentian Mountains as the aircraft climbs northeastward from Mirabel. The terrain rises noticeably to the north and west, creating visible ridgelines and forested slopes during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Laurentian Mountains (north), Ottawa River valley (visible to the west), Gatineau Hills (northwest), Lake of Two Mountains (southwest).
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 provides views of Iceland's western coastline and Reykjavik's approach path. The descent into Keflavík typically follows a southwestern approach, giving right-side passengers clear views of the Atlantic coastline, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the city itself. Notable sights include: Reykjavik city and harbor (east), Reykjanes Peninsula lava fields (south), Atlantic coastline (west), Mount Esja (north across the bay).
How long is the flight from Montreal to Reykjavik?
The flight from Montreal International Mirabel (YMX) to Reykjavik (RKV) takes about 5 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,335 miles (3,758 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Montreal to Reykjavik flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 3.5 hours with no major landmarks visible—primarily open ocean. The aircraft will pass south of Greenland (not visible at typical cruise altitude of 35,000 feet unless weather permits glimpses of the ice sheet on the horizon). The approach to Iceland begins around 200 miles west of Reykjavik, where the first signs of land appear as the volcanic plateau and coastal features emerge from the ocean.