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IND → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Indianapolis International Airport (Indianapolis) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is the clear winner for this route, offering potential glimpses of the Great Lakes and a much higher probability of seeing the iconic Manhattan skyline during the final approach into JFK.
Manhattan Skyline
Depending on the landing pattern, the left side offers the most direct views of the Empire State Building and Central Park.
Lake Erie Coastline
During the early cruise phase, you can often see the southern shores of Lake Erie and the Cleveland metropolitan area.
Appalachian Plateau
View the rugged, rolling hills of northern Pennsylvania, which are particularly stunning during the autumn foliage season.
The Hudson River
As the plane begins its final descent, you will likely cross over the Hudson River, marking the transition into New York airspace.
Book a window seat in front of the wing for the best views of the New York City skyline. Choose an evening flight to see the city lights, and watch for the 'Canarsie Approach' where the plane banks sharply over Brooklyn for a cinematic view of Manhattan.
Appalachian Ridges
Observation of the distinct linear ridge-and-valley formations characteristic of central Pennsylvania.
Jersey Shore
As the plane approaches the coast, you can see the sandy hook and the long stretches of the New Jersey beaches.
Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge
A great vantage point for seeing the massive bridge connecting Staten Island and Brooklyn during the final descent.
New York Harbor
Look for cargo ships and tankers navigating the busy shipping lanes of the Atlantic Ocean just south of the airport.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the sun's glare, which will be on the left side of the aircraft. It provides a better perspective of the Atlantic coastline and the industrial beauty of the New Jersey ports.
Distance: 1,067 km (663 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: IND (39.7173, -86.294403)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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