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GVA → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Geneva Cointrin International Airport (Geneva) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route as it provides the most iconic views of Lake Geneva upon departure and offers a much higher probability of seeing the Manhattan skyline on the final approach into JFK.
Lake Geneva & Jet d'Eau
Shortly after takeoff, you will have a clear view of the crescent-shaped lake and the famous water fountain.
Mont Blanc & French Alps
Looking south, the highest peak in Europe is often visible against the horizon during the initial climb.
Southern England
Depending on the airway, you may see the white cliffs of Dover and the sprawling suburbs of London.
Nova Scotia Coastline
As you reach the North American continent, the rugged and indented coastline of Nova Scotia comes into view.
Cape Cod & Islands
The distinctive hook of Cape Cod and the islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket are visible before the descent.
Manhattan Skyline
On common approaches like the Parkway Visual or arrivals from the north, the left side gets the best view of the NYC skyline.
Book a window seat on the left side (typically seat 'A') for a daytime flight. To see the Manhattan skyline, pray for a landing on Runway 22L or 13L. In winter, the late afternoon sun will be on the left side during the Atlantic crossing, so keep your window shade down to avoid glare until you hit the Canadian coast.
Jura Mountains
Immediate views of the limestone ridges of the Jura range separating Switzerland and France.
Greenland Ice Cap
On northerly 'Great Circle' tracks, the right side offers breathtaking views of glaciers and the vast inland ice sheet.
Icebergs
In late spring and early summer, look down while passing Newfoundland to spot icebergs drifting in the 'Iceberg Alley'.
Boston Cityscape
The plane often passes directly over or just east of Boston, providing a detailed view of the city and its harbor.
Long Island Sound
Clear views of the Connecticut coastline and the northern shores of Long Island during the final stages of the flight.
The right side is the 'Greenland Side.' If your flight path is tracking significantly north (check your flight tracker app), the right side offers once-in-a-lifetime views of the Arctic. It is also generally cooler on this side of the plane as it faces north away from the direct sun for most of the westbound journey.
Distance: 6,201 km (3,853 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 18 min
Departure: GVA (46.23809814453125, 6.108950138092041)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: International
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