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DEN → LGA
Which side of the plane to sit from Denver International Airport (Denver) to La Guardia Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most iconic views of the Manhattan skyline, Central Park, and the Hudson River during the final descent into LaGuardia, especially during the 'River Visual' or 'Park Avenue' approach patterns.
Denver Skyline
Just after takeoff from DEN, catch a view of the city skyline with the massive Rocky Mountains framing the background to the west.
Nebraska & Iowa Farmlands
Observe the intricate geometric patterns of circular irrigation and vast agricultural grids across the Great Plains.
Lake Michigan South Shore
Depending on the specific flight corridor, you may see the southern tip of Lake Michigan and the distant Chicago skyline.
Finger Lakes
Glimpse the long, narrow glacial lakes of Upstate New York, which stand out as deep blue gashes in the green landscape.
Manhattan Skyline
The premier highlight; enjoy sweeping views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Midtown skyscrapers as you bank toward LGA.
To avoid the direct glare of the southern sun during midday flights, the left side is preferable. For the best chance at the 'River Visual' approach into Runway 13, book a window seat on this side to see the Hudson River and the West Side of Manhattan. In winter, this side offers great views of snow-covered landscapes in the Midwest.
DEN Architecture
Look down shortly after takeoff to see the iconic white peaked tent roof of the Jeppesen Terminal at Denver International.
Mississippi River
Watch for the massive 'Father of Waters' winding through the central United States, often near St. Louis or the Illinois border.
Appalachian Ridges
See the distinct, folded mountain ridges of Pennsylvania and West Virginia, particularly beautiful during the autumn foliage season.
Citi Field & Flushing Meadows
On the final seconds before touchdown on Runway 31, you will fly directly past the home of the New York Mets and the Unisphere.
JFK Airport Traffic
During the arrival sequence, look south to spot the busy runways and terminals of John F. Kennedy International Airport.
The right side is the 'sunny side' for the majority of this eastbound flight; bring sunglasses if flying in the morning. This side is excellent for seeing the complex industrial and residential layouts of New Jersey and the outer boroughs of NYC during the descent. If the plane lands toward the south, you might catch a distant glimpse of the Statue of Liberty.
Distance: 2,600 km (1,616 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 28 min
Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Arrival: LGA (40.77719879, -73.87259674)
Route Type: Domestic
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