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HND → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Tokyo Haneda International Airport (Tokyo) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side (Starboard) is generally the most scenic choice for this transpacific route, offering incredible views of the Alaskan coastline, the jagged Canadian Rockies, and the best chance for a panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline during the approach into New York.
Mount Fuji
Shortly after departure from Haneda, if the plane takes a southerly turn before heading north, the iconic peak is visible to the right.
Alaskan Glaciers
Spectacular views of the Gulf of Alaska, including massive tidewater glaciers and the icefields of the Panhandle.
Canadian Rockies
Soar over the dramatic, snow-capped peaks of British Columbia and Alberta as the flight path moves inland.
The Great Lakes
On a clear day, you may see the vast expanse of Lake Superior and the northern reaches of Lake Huron.
Manhattan Skyline
Depending on the landing pattern (typically for Runway 13R), the right side offers an unparalleled view of the Empire State Building and Central Park.
Choose a seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the Alaskan glaciers isn't obstructed. This side provides more diverse land-based scenery throughout the flight. For the New York arrival, the right side is superior for seeing the city's landmarks if the wind dictates a northern approach.
Kamchatka Peninsula
Look out for the smoking peaks of Russia's most active volcanoes as you track along the edge of the Ring of Fire.
Aurora Borealis
On night flights, the left side faces north toward the magnetic pole, offering a high probability of seeing the Northern Lights over the Arctic.
Brooks Range
Vast, untouched mountain vistas as the flight crosses the northernmost reaches of Alaska and the Yukon.
The Hudson Valley
During the descent, witness the winding Hudson River and the lush greenery of the Catskill Mountains.
The left side is the 'Aurora' side. If you are flying during the northern hemisphere's winter or autumn and the cabin is dark, keep your eyes on the northern horizon for glowing green ribbons. During the day, the terrain is more barren and tundra-like compared to the southern side.
Distance: 10,875 km (6,757 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 48 min
Departure: HND (35.552299, 139.779999)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: International
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