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IAD destination photo
LGA destination photo

IADLGA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer views of the Northeast Corridor, the right side provides the most iconic entrance into New York City, featuring the Statue of Liberty, the Verrazzano Bridge, and a stunning perspective of the Lower Manhattan skyline during standard approaches.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🦀

Chesapeake Bay

The vast waterways and inlets of the upper Chesapeake are visible shortly after takeoff from IAD.

🏖️

Jersey Shoreline

Long stretches of sandy beaches and coastal towns visible to the east in the distance.

🌉

Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge

The massive suspension bridge connecting Staten Island and Brooklyn marks the entry to the harbor.

🗽

Statue of Liberty

A miniature but distinct view of Lady Liberty standing in the New York Harbor.

🏢

Financial District

Unmatched views of One World Trade Center and the cluster of skyscrapers in Lower Manhattan.

The right side is the 'money side' for New York landings. Try to book a window seat for a late afternoon flight when the setting sun reflects off the glass towers of Manhattan. Watch for the 'Expressway Visual' approach into LGA, which flies low over Brooklyn and offers a thrilling view of the city's density.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Susquehanna River

A wide, winding river crossing as you fly over northern Maryland and Pennsylvania.

🏙️

Philadelphia Suburbs

Dense urban sprawl and glimpses of the Philadelphia skyline to the east.

✈️

Newark Liberty Airport

Clear overhead views of one of the nation's busiest airport hubs just before entering NYC airspace.

🌳

Central Park

The massive green rectangle of Manhattan stands out sharply against the concrete grid.

⛴️

Hudson River

The waterway separating New Jersey and Manhattan, often filled with ferries and barges.

The left side is excellent for viewing the 'top' of Manhattan if the plane approaches LGA from the north. Aim for a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the city buildings. If the flight path takes you over the Hudson, you will see the George Washington Bridge in great detail.

Top Activities in New York
Route Information

Distance: 367 km (228 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 37 min

Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Arrival: LGA (40.77719879, -73.87259674)

Route Type: Domestic

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