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FRA â JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior on this westbound route for the potential to see the stunning icecaps of Greenland and the rugged wilderness of the Canadian Maritimes.
Scottish Highlands
Depending on the daily air traffic track, you may pass over the rugged mountains and lochs of northern Scotland.
Greenland Icecap
The absolute highlight of the route; massive glaciers, icebergs, and frozen fjords are often visible from this side.
Labrador Coast
The desolate, rocky, and beautiful wilderness of northeastern Canada as you re-enter North American airspace.
Nova Scotia
Views of the dense evergreen forests and jagged Atlantic coastline of the Canadian Maritimes.
Boston & Cape Cod
As the flight nears New York, you can often spot the distinct hook shape of Cape Cod and the Boston metro area.
The right side is the 'cool' side for two reasons: it faces north away from the direct sun (reducing glare for photos) and it offers the best chance of seeing Greenland. Greenland visibility depends on the daily North Atlantic Tracks (NAT), but northerly tracks are common. Check the flight map 3-4 hours into the flight. If the sky is clear, the contrast between the white ice and deep blue water is breathtaking.
Celtic Sea & Ireland
Aerial views of the southern Irish coastline and the deep blue of the Celtic Sea shortly after takeoff.
North Atlantic Crossing
Vast ocean views often featuring interesting cloud formations and the occasional passing cargo ship.
Long Island Shoreline
A clear view of the Hamptons, Fire Island, and the sandy barrier islands of the New York coast.
Manhattan Skyline
On specific southern approaches (Runway 31L/R), passengers see the iconic skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
Brooklyn and Queens
Dense urban patterns and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge during the final descent into JFK.
Sit on the left for the best chance of seeing the Manhattan skyline during the final approach, especially if the wind dictates a landing on the 31 runways. Since this is a westbound flight, the sun will be on the left (south) side for most of the day; be prepared for significant glare and keep your window shade down during the mid-flight ocean crossing to avoid heat.
Distance: 6,189 km (3,846 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 17 min
Departure: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: International
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