While left offers good departure views, right provides superior scenery on the longer, more visually interesting descent into Iceland. The approach to Reykjavik showcases Iceland's unique volcanic and glacial landscape, which is the flight's most distinctive visual payoff.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic at high altitude (typically 33,000-35,000 feet). Over open ocean, there are no significant landmarks, but passengers may see the Greenland ice sheet's eastern edge if the aircraft tracks far enough north (unlikely on this route). The flight primarily crosses open water with occasional views of cloud formations and the curvature of the Atlantic. As the aircraft approaches Iceland from the southwest, the first visible landmass is typically the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic terrain, followed by the approach to Keflavík International Airport area before diverting to Reykjavik's Dorval Airport (note: commercial flights to Reykjavik typically land at Keflavík, approximately 50 km southwest of the city).
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Montreal International Dorval (YUL) to Reykjavik (RKV)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Montreal to Reykjavik. While left offers good departure views, right provides superior scenery on the longer, more visually interesting descent into Iceland. The approach to Reykjavik showcases Iceland's unique volcanic and glacial landscape, which is the flight's most distinctive visual payoff.
What can I see during takeoff from Montreal International Dorval in Montreal?
During takeoff from Montreal International Dorval (YUL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the St. Lawrence River valley and the Laurentian Mountains as the aircraft climbs northeastward out of Montreal. Right side shows the flat St. Lawrence lowlands with less dramatic relief. Notable sights include: St. Lawrence River (flowing southeast through the frame), Laurentian Mountains (northern horizon, extending east-west), Montreal urban sprawl (receding southward), Île-de-Montréal (visible as developed landmass below during initial climb).
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 views of Iceland's dramatic coastal features and glacial valleys during descent into Reykjavik. The approach typically comes from the southwest, making the right side ideal for seeing the volcanic landscape and fjord systems. Notable sights include: Reykjavik city and harbor (visible as developed area on peninsula), Faxaflói Bay (large water body to the east), Snæfellsjökull or distant glacial peaks (western horizon during approach), volcanic terrain and lava fields (dark rocky ground visible across the landscape).
How long is the flight from Montreal to Reykjavik?
The flight from Montreal International Dorval (YUL) to Reykjavik (RKV) takes Approximately 5 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 45 minutes.
What does the Montreal to Reykjavik flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the North Atlantic at high altitude (typically 33,000-35,000 feet). Over open ocean, there are no significant landmarks, but passengers may see the Greenland ice sheet's eastern edge if the aircraft tracks far enough north (unlikely on this route). The flight primarily crosses open water with occasional views of cloud formations and the curvature of the Atlantic. As the aircraft approaches Iceland from the southwest, the first visible landmass is typically the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic terrain, followed by the approach to Keflavík International Airport area before diverting to Reykjavik's Dorval Airport (note: commercial flights to Reykjavik typically land at Keflavík, approximately 50 km southwest of the city).