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GYE destination photo
JFK destination photo

GYEJFK

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior primarily for the approach into New York, where passengers often get a spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty before landing.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🌊

Guayas River

Immediate views of the massive river system and Guayaquil's urban sprawl during the initial climb.

🌴

Panamanian Isthmus

Distant views of the narrow strip of land connecting the Americas as the plane heads into the Caribbean.

🏖️

Outer Banks

The distinctive thin barrier islands of North Carolina are often visible if the flight path hugs the coast.

🏙️

Manhattan Skyline

On clear days and specific approaches like the PARK arrival, the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center are visible.

🗽

Statue of Liberty

Can often be spotted during the final descent patterns over the harbor area depending on wind direction.

For the best experience, choose a window seat on the left (Seat A). This side avoids direct afternoon sun for most of the northbound journey. The highlight is the arrival; if the flight uses Runway 13L or 13R, the 'Canarsie Approach' offers one of the best aerial views of Manhattan in the world. Check weather for NYC; clear skies are essential for the skyline views.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🏔️

Andean Foothills

Looking east toward the high peaks of the Andes as the flight tracks north along the coast of South America.

🇨🇺

Central Cuba

Aerial perspective of the Cuban landscape and its northern cays while crossing the Caribbean.

🏝️

The Bahamas

Vibrant turquoise waters and coral reefs of the Bahamian archipelago visible during mid-flight.

🌅

Atlantic Horizon

Uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean and the sunrise for overnight flight segments.

🏘️

Long Island Shoreline

Views of the Hamptons and the sandy southern beaches of Long Island during the final approach.

Select a window seat on the right (Seat F/K) for the best views of the Caribbean islands and the Bahamas. This side is particularly rewarding during the midday portion of the flight when the sun is high, making the turquoise reefs pop. During winter months, this side will also catch the sunrise if you are on a very early morning departure or a delayed red-eye.

Top Activities in New York
Route Information

Distance: 4,799 km (2,982 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 39 min

Departure: GYE (-2.15741991997, -79.88359832760001)

Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)

Route Type: International

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