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EWR → SXM
Which side of the plane to sit from Newark Liberty International Airport (Newark) to Princess Juliana International Airport (Philipsburg)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior sequence of views, starting with potential glimpses of the Manhattan skyline upon departure, followed by the vibrant reef systems of the Turks and Caicos and the lush peaks of the British Virgin Islands during the final descent.
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Manhattan Skyline
Depending on departure direction, spectacular views of the NYC skyline and the Hudson River.
Jersey Shoreline
Aerial views of Atlantic City and the barrier islands of New Jersey during the initial climb.
Turks and Caicos
Stunning turquoise waters and shallow coral reefs visible as you traverse the Atlantic.
British Virgin Islands
Emerald islands like Virgin Gorda and Tortola appear as the flight enters the Caribbean basin.
Anguilla
The flat, coral-limestone island of Anguilla is clearly visible just north of St. Martin during the approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to witness the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. This side is also prime for island spotting as the flight path usually approaches SXM from the northwest, keeping the chain of Leeward Islands in view. Use a polarized filter for photos to capture the deep blues and turquoises of the Caribbean sea.
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The Outer Banks
The thin, sandy strip of North Carolina's barrier islands often visible to the west.
Simpson Bay
Views of the yacht-filled lagoon and the Causeway Bridge just before landing.
St. Martin Interior
The rugged, lush green hills of the island's interior during the final seconds of flight.
Maho Beach
The iconic perspective of crowds gathered at the end of the runway at Princess Juliana International.
The right side is preferred for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. While you spend more time looking at open ocean, the final approach offers a great angle of the Simpson Bay area and the famous Maho Beach crowds. It is often less crowded on this side if you prefer a quieter cabin experience.
Book Hotels in PhilipsburgDistance: 2,732 km (1,698 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 39 min
Departure: EWR (40.69250106811523, -74.168701171875)
Arrival: SXM (18.0410003662, -63.1088981628)
Route Type: International
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