While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach over Iceland's distinctive volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula and Atlantic coastline provides more dramatic and memorable scenery. The contrast between Canada's flat terrain and Iceland's volcanic landscape makes the left-side landing views the highlight of this route.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Hudson Bay (visible as a massive body of water with irregular coastline if flying at optimal altitude during daylight), then transitions over the Arctic waters and Labrador Sea. The Davis Strait separates Labrador from Greenland's eastern coast—Greenland's ice sheet and glaciers are visible as white terrain on the right side during the northern Atlantic crossing. The Denmark Strait between Greenland and Iceland appears as open ocean. No significant landmarks are visible during the mid-Atlantic portion, though the transition from North American terrain to Greenlandic ice sheet and finally to Iceland's volcanic landscape marks the journey's progression.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Winnipeg International (YWG) to Keflavik Nas (KEF)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Winnipeg to Keflavik. While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach over Iceland's distinctive volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula and Atlantic coastline provides more dramatic and memorable scenery. The contrast between Canada's flat terrain and Iceland's volcanic landscape makes the left-side landing views the highlight of this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Winnipeg International in Winnipeg?
During takeoff from Winnipeg International (YWG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Lake Winnipeg and the Canadian Shield terrain as the aircraft climbs northeastward. The left side faces inland prairie with minimal visual interest during initial climb. Notable sights include: Lake Winnipeg (large freshwater body immediately north of airport), Winnipeg city grid (visible briefly during climb), Canadian Shield boreal forest (transitioning from prairie to north).
What can I see when landing at Keflavik Nas in Keflavik?
When landing at Keflavik Nas (KEF), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of Iceland's dramatic southwestern coastline, including the Reykjanes Peninsula's volcanic terrain and the Atlantic coast as the aircraft descends toward Keflavik. Right side faces inland plateau with less distinctive features. Notable sights include: Reykjanes Peninsula (volcanic lava fields with dark basalt rock visible as black/dark brown terrain), Atlantic coastline (rugged cliffs and rocky shores), Keflavik town and airport infrastructure (visible in final approach), geothermal areas (steam vents visible as white plumes in volcanic landscape).
How long is the flight from Winnipeg to Keflavik?
The flight from Winnipeg International (YWG) to Keflavik Nas (KEF) takes Approximately 5 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Winnipeg to Keflavik flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Hudson Bay (visible as a massive body of water with irregular coastline if flying at optimal altitude during daylight), then transitions over the Arctic waters and Labrador Sea. The Davis Strait separates Labrador from Greenland's eastern coast—Greenland's ice sheet and glaciers are visible as white terrain on the right side during the northern Atlantic crossing. The Denmark Strait between Greenland and Iceland appears as open ocean. No significant landmarks are visible during the mid-Atlantic portion, though the transition from North American terrain to Greenlandic ice sheet and finally to Iceland's volcanic landscape marks the journey's progression.