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KEF β IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Keflavik International Airport (Keflavik) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers unparalleled views of the massive Greenland ice sheets and the rugged, fjord-carved coastline of Labrador, followed by the vast wilderness of the Canadian Shield.
Greenland Ice Cap
Spectacular views of the massive southern ice sheet, towering glaciers, and deep blue fjords.
Torngat Mountains
The sharp, dramatic peaks of Labrador's northern wilderness rising out of the sea.
Boreal Forests
The endless green and lake-dotted expanse of the Canadian Shield over Quebec.
St. Lawrence River
A crossing of the massive waterway that connects the Great Lakes to the Atlantic.
Appalachian Mountains
The rolling, forested ridges of the Appalachian range as the aircraft enters US airspace.
The right side is the definitive choice for scenery enthusiasts. Aim to be awake approximately 90 to 120 minutes after departure for the Greenland crossingβthe ice fjords are the highlight of the trip. Lighting is generally better for photography on this side as the sun remains to the south. During descent, look for the unique geological ridges of the Appalachians.
Reykjanes Peninsula
Dramatic volcanic landscapes and lava fields immediately after takeoff from Keflavik.
North Atlantic Crossing
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic, where icebergs are often visible near the Greenland coast.
Nova Scotia Coastline
Distant views of the Canadian Maritimes and the rugged Atlantic coastline of Nova Scotia.
US East Coast Cities
Passing east of Boston and New York, offering a distant perspective of the coastal megalopolis.
Potomac River
Views of the winding Potomac River and the outskirts of the Virginia suburbs during final descent.
Sit on the left if you prefer a view of the Atlantic horizon and want to avoid direct sun glare during the middle of the flight. As you approach Dulles, this side often sees the dense urban sprawl of the US East Coast from a distance. However, be aware that most of the flight is over open water on this side.
Distance: 4,495 km (2,793 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 17 min
Departure: KEF (63.985000610352, -22.605600357056)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: International
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