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CLE → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (Cleveland) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior as it offers a more consistent view of the Manhattan skyline, Central Park, and the Hudson River during the standard arrival patterns into JFK.
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Lake Erie Shoreline
Sweeping views of the Great Lake coast immediately after departure from Cleveland.
Allegheny Plateau
Densely forested, rolling hills of northern Pennsylvania providing beautiful autumn colors.
Delaware Water Gap
The dramatic breach where the Delaware River cuts through the Appalachian Mountains.
Manhattan Skyline
A world-class view of the Empire State Building and Central Park during the descent.
Hudson River
The historic waterway separating the New Jersey Palisades from the island of Manhattan.
For the most iconic experience, book a window seat on the left side and choose a flight arriving in the late afternoon. During this time, the sun illuminates the Manhattan skyscrapers from the west. Watch for the 'LENDY' or 'CAMRN' arrival procedures, which often provide a wide loop around the northern end of the city for spectacular aerial photography.
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Cuyahoga Valley
Lush greenery and winding river views of the National Park just south of Cleveland.
Susquehanna River
The wide, silver ribbon of one of the oldest river systems in the world crossing Pennsylvania.
New Jersey Urban Sprawl
Intricate views of Newark, Jersey City, and the industrial heart of the Northeast Corridor.
Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge
The massive suspension bridge connecting Staten Island and Brooklyn seen during the final turn.
Jamaica Bay
Salt marshes and coastal lagoons surrounding the airport perimeter right before touchdown.
The right side is ideal if the flight is assigned the 'Parkway Visual' approach to Runway 13L, which offers a unique banking view of the city. It is also the best side for spotting the Atlantic coastline and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge if the plane approaches from the south over the ocean. Early morning flights on this side may experience significant glare.
Book Hotels in New YorkDistance: 682 km (424 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 8 min
Departure: CLE (41.4117012024, -81.8498001099)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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