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DTW → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers the most iconic experience, featuring the dramatic Finger Lakes of Upstate New York and a high probability of seeing the Manhattan skyline during the final descent into JFK.
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Lake Erie Coastline
Sweeping views of the Canadian northern shore and the eastern basin of the Great Lakes.
Buffalo and Niagara
The industrial landscape of Buffalo and the mist from the nearby Niagara Falls on clear days.
The Finger Lakes
Distinctive views of the long, narrow glacial lakes including Seneca and Cayuga lakes.
Catskill Mountains
Dense forest cover and rolling peaks of the Appalachian range in southeastern New York.
Manhattan Skyline
A breathtaking perspective of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Midtown skyscrapers during the descent.
Choose a window seat on the left (typically 'A') for the best skyline views. Fly in the late afternoon for optimal lighting, as the sun will be behind the aircraft, perfectly illuminating the Finger Lakes and the NYC skyscrapers. Watch for the 'Canarsie Approach' where the plane banks over Brooklyn, offering a front-row seat to Manhattan.
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Cleveland Skyline
Views of the downtown core and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame along the Lake Erie shore.
Allegheny National Forest
Vast stretches of unbroken wilderness and rugged plateaus in northern Pennsylvania.
Susquehanna River
The wide, winding path of the river as it cuts through the Appalachian ridges.
Pocono Mountains
Scenic views of the popular mountain resort region and its many small lakes.
Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge
Views of the massive suspension bridge connecting Staten Island and Brooklyn on final approach.
The right side (typically 'F') is best for travelers interested in the rugged geography of the Appalachians. In autumn, this side provides spectacular views of the changing foliage over Pennsylvania. On specific approach patterns, you may also catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty in the distance as the plane turns toward the runway.
Book Hotels in New YorkDistance: 817 km (508 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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