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HOU → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from William P Hobby Airport (Houston) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this route because it offers the potential for iconic views of the Manhattan skyline during the final approach into JFK, especially if the plane follows the common arrival patterns from the south.
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Houston Skyline
Immediately after takeoff from HOU, the left side often captures the dense cluster of skyscrapers in Downtown Houston.
Appalachian Mountains
During the mid-flight cruise, you will pass over the rolling, forested ridges of the Appalachian range in Virginia and West Virginia.
Jersey Shore
As the plane begins its descent, look out for the distinctive sandy barrier islands and coastal towns of the New Jersey coastline.
Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge
On many common approach paths, this massive suspension bridge connecting Staten Island and Brooklyn is visible on the left.
Manhattan Skyline
The 'holy grail' of JFK approaches: the entire Manhattan skyline often appears to the left as the plane maneuvers over the harbor or Brooklyn.
Book a window seat on the left for the best chance of seeing the New York City skyline. During a morning flight, the sun will be behind you or to the right, providing excellent lighting for photos of the Eastern Seaboard. If arriving at night, the grid of NYC lights is spectacular.
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Houston Ship Channel
View one of the world's busiest ports and the winding industrial waterways leading out to the Gulf of Mexico.
Atlantic Coastline
As the flight nears the Northeast, the right side provides vast views of the Atlantic Ocean and the breaking waves along the Delmarva Peninsula.
Long Island South Shore
On final approach, see the intricate bays, marshes, and beach communities of Jones Beach and the Rockaways.
JFK Airport Perimeter
The right side offers a great view of the airport's massive infrastructure and the surrounding Jamaica Bay wildlife refuge.
The right side is ideal if you prefer sun-drenched views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is particularly scenic during sunrise flights when the sun comes up over the water. Be aware that during the afternoon, this side can experience significant glare from the southern sun.
Book Hotels in New YorkDistance: 2,296 km (1,427 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 4 min
Departure: HOU (29.64539909, -95.27890015)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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