The Shortest Transatlantic Flights: Quick Crossings Between North America and Europe

For travelers crossing the Atlantic, there are routes that allow for quicker journeys, minimizing flight times and maximizing efficiency. The shortest transatlantic routes linking the U.S. and Canada to Europe are particularly appealing in winter, when travelers often look to reach their destinations with fewer in-flight hours. Here’s a closer look at the shortest transatlantic connections, offering speedy options for travelers in winter.

1. St. John’s to London Heathrow

The shortest transatlantic route in North America begins in St. John’s, Newfoundland, connecting to London Heathrow. With a flight distance of just over 2,300 miles, this route is popular for those traveling from Canada to Europe, often taking under five hours.

2. Boston to Dublin

Another short transatlantic crossing is between Boston Logan International Airport and Dublin Airport. This route covers approximately 2,990 miles and is commonly serviced by Aer Lingus. With a flight time around six hours, it’s a convenient choice for East Coast travelers bound for Ireland or beyond.

3. Halifax to London Heathrow

From Halifax Stanfield International Airport in Nova Scotia, travelers can reach London Heathrow in a little over five hours. Covering about 2,800 miles, this route is favored by those on Canada’s eastern coast seeking a quick route to London.

4. New York to Shannon

Offering a more direct route to Ireland, New York JFK to Shannon in western Ireland is a popular seasonal option. Aer Lingus typically operates this service, allowing U.S. travelers to reach Ireland in approximately six hours.

5. New York to Lisbon

Connecting New York City with Lisbon, Portugal, this route offers a fast way to reach southern Europe. Covering around 3,300 miles, flights operated by TAP Air Portugal take just under seven hours, making it a convenient link for those headed to Portugal or Spain.

6. Newark to Porto

A growing route for those heading to Portugal, Newark to Porto cuts across the Atlantic in under seven hours. Operated by United Airlines and TAP, this 3,200-mile journey is ideal for travelers looking for a less busy entry point to Europe.

7. Montreal to Brussels

For Canadians traveling to continental Europe, Montreal to Brussels offers a quick crossing. At roughly 3,400 miles, this route is frequently served by Air Canada and Brussels Airlines, taking around seven hours.

8. New York to Reykjavik

New York’s connection to Reykjavik in Iceland is another short transatlantic route, covering about 2,600 miles. Icelandair’s flights are just under six hours, and the option for an Iceland stopover makes it an attractive choice for those wishing to explore Iceland.

9. Philadelphia to Dublin

Travelers from Philadelphia International Airport can reach Dublin in about six and a half hours on Aer Lingus. This 3,200-mile route provides a direct and efficient connection from the mid-Atlantic U.S. to Ireland.

10. Washington, D.C. to Lisbon

Connecting Washington Dulles International Airport to Lisbon, this route spans about 3,400 miles. TAP Air Portugal operates this flight in approximately seven hours, offering an efficient link to southern Europe.

A Quick Atlantic Cross for Every Traveler

From Canada’s east coast to New York’s JFK, these routes make the transatlantic crossing shorter and more accessible. For those seeking efficient travel to Europe during winter, these routes provide options that are quick, convenient, and ideal for maximizing time on the ground at their destinations.