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HEL → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the premier choice for this route, offering iconic views of the Greenland ice sheet, the rugged Labrador coast, and the potential for Northern Lights on night flights.
Norwegian Fjords
Spectacular views of the jagged, snow-capped mountains and deep water inlets along the Norway coast.
Icelandic Highlands
Depending on the day's jet stream, you may pass over the volcanic landscapes and glaciers of Iceland.
Greenland Ice Sheet
The flight's crown jewel: thousands of miles of pristine white ice, massive glaciers, and turquoise meltwater lakes.
Labrador Icebergs
During spring and early summer, look for massive white icebergs floating in the dark waters off the Canadian coast.
Quebec Wilderness
An endless tapestry of boreal forests and millions of small glacial lakes throughout Northern Quebec.
Hudson Valley
Beautiful views of the Catskill Mountains and the winding Hudson River as you approach the New York metro area.
The right side is the 'scenic side' for geography lovers. It faces north, providing softer lighting for photography and the best chance to witness the Aurora Borealis if flying during the winter months. The view of Greenland's coastal fjords is best captured about 4-5 hours into the flight. Bring a camera with a good zoom for the icebergs off the Labrador coast.
Helsinki Archipelago
Stunning views of the thousands of islands dotting the Gulf of Finland immediately after takeoff from HEL.
Stockholm and Sweden
Clear views of the Swedish capital and the intricate Baltic coastline if the flight path tracks south.
North Atlantic Expanse
Vast ocean vistas and unique atmospheric cloud formations typical of the high-latitude crossing.
Newfoundland Coast
The first sight of North America, featuring the rocky cliffs and inlets of the Canadian Maritimes.
Cape Cod & Boston
Distinctive views of the hooked peninsula of Cape Cod and the metropolitan sprawl of Boston during descent.
Long Island Sound
A detailed look at the beaches and mansions of the Hamptons and the Long Island coastline entering New York.
The left side is best for the arrival into JFK. Sit here if you want to see the US East Coast shoreline and potentially the Manhattan skyline in the distance during the final approach. Since this side faces south, it receives direct sunlight for the duration of the westbound flight; keep your window shade down periodically to avoid glare.
Distance: 6,607 km (4,105 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 46 min
Departure: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: International
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