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AEY destination photo
RKV destination photo

AEYRKV

Which side of the plane to sit from Akureyri Airport (Akureyri) to Reykjavik Airport (Reykjavik)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a breathtaking perspective of the vast Icelandic highlands, including the massive Hofsjökull glacier and the vibrant rhyolite peaks of Kerlingarfjöll, concluding with a perfect aerial view of Reykjavik's city center.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏔️

Eyjafjörður Fjord

As you take off from Akureyri, enjoy the deep blue waters and steep mountains flanking Iceland's longest fjord.

🧊

Hofsjökull Glacier

A massive, circular ice cap visible in the central highlands, representing the third-largest glacier in Iceland.

🌋

Kerlingarfjöll

A stunning volcanic mountain range known for its orange rhyolite rock and steaming geothermal vents.

⛰️

Mount Esja

The iconic 'city mountain' of Reykjavik, showing its flat-topped basalt layers as you begin the descent.

🏙️

Reykjavik Cityscape

A bird's-eye view of the Hallgrímskirkja church and the colorful rooftops of the capital city just before touchdown.

Choose a window seat on the left for the best morning light on the highlands. During winter, this side is excellent for spotting the Aurora Borealis on evening flights. Keep your camera ready during the final 3 minutes for the most iconic views of Reykjavik's downtown.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🧗

Tröllaskagi Peninsula

The 'Troll Peninsula' features some of Iceland's tallest and most dramatic alpine peaks just west of the flight path.

❄️

Langjökull Glacier

The 'Long Glacier' dominates the western horizon, showcasing a vast expanse of permanent ice and snow.

🗻

Eiríksjökull

A magnificent shield volcano and the largest table mountain in Iceland, rising sharply from the surrounding lava fields.

🌊

Faxaflói Bay

The wide bay surrounding Reykjavik, where you might spot whales or distant fishing vessels in the Atlantic waters.

🌋

Snæfellsjökull

On clear days, the legendary glacier-capped volcano made famous by Jules Verne is visible on the far western horizon.

The right side is superior for sunset flights, as the sun dips toward the North Atlantic. Look out for the distinct 'table mountain' shape of Eiríksjökull mid-flight. If the plane approaches from the south, this side offers great views of the Reykjanes lava fields.

Top Activities in Reykjavik
Route Information

Distance: 249 km (155 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 25 min

Departure: AEY (65.66000366210939, -18.07270050048828)

Arrival: RKV (64.1299972534, -21.9405994415)

Route Type: Domestic

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