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CVG destination photo
JFK destination photo

CVGJFK

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer views of the Appalachian Mountains, the Right Side is the clear winner for its spectacular approach into New York, providing the best vantage point for the Statue of Liberty, Lower Manhattan, and the New Jersey coastline.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🌳

Monongahela Forest

Dense, lush green forest views of the West Virginia highlands during the first half of the flight.

🏙️

Philadelphia Skyline

Distant but clear views of the Center City skyline and the Delaware River as the plane traverses New Jersey.

🗽

Statue of Liberty

A prime view of Lady Liberty and Ellis Island when the plane executes the 'Parkway Visual' or 'CAMRN' arrival.

🌆

One World Trade Center

Unrivaled views of the Lower Manhattan skyline as the aircraft turns toward the JFK approach path.

🌉

Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge

The massive suspension bridge connecting Staten Island and Brooklyn is highly visible during the descent.

🏖️

Coney Island

The historic amusement park and boardwalk along the Brooklyn coast are visible just seconds before landing.

The right side is essential for the iconic NYC arrival experience. Book an evening flight to see the Manhattan skyline illuminated. Be aware that during the afternoon, the sun will be on this side of the aircraft, so keep your window shade adjusted until the final descent.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏞️

Ohio River Bend

Aerial view of the winding Ohio River and the Kentucky-Ohio border shortly after takeoff from CVG.

⛰️

Northern Appalachians

Dramatic views of the parallel ridges and valleys of the Appalachian mountain range across Pennsylvania.

🌊

Susquehanna River

Crossing over one of the oldest and longest rivers on the East Coast near Harrisburg.

🏙️

Midtown Manhattan

On specific northerly approaches, a glimpse of Central Park and the Empire State Building from the north.

Sit on the left if you prefer looking at the dense forest canopies of the north. This side is less likely to have direct sun glare during morning eastbound flights, making photography of the Appalachian ridges much easier.

Top Activities in New York
Route Information

Distance: 946 km (588 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min

Departure: CVG (39.0488014221, -84.6678009033)

Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)

Route Type: Domestic

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