We have resolved the classical nova V1663 Aql using long-baseline near-IR interferometry covering the period from \sim 5–18 days after peak brightness .
We directly measure the shape and size of the fireball , which we find to be asymmetric .
In addition we measure an apparent expansion rate of 0.21 \pm 0.03 { mas day ^ { -1 } } .
Assuming a linear expansion model we infer a time of initial outburst approximately 4 days prior to peak brightness .
When combined with published spectroscopic expansion velocities our angular expansion rate implies a distance of 8.9 \pm 3.6 kpc .
This distance measurement is independent of , but consistent with , determinations made using widely available photometric relations for novae .