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IST → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer merit, the Right Side is the clear winner for its unparalleled views of the Greenland ice cap and the rugged Canadian coastline, which are the highlights of the Great Circle trajectory used on this long-haul route.
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Black Sea Coast
Sweeping views of the northern Turkish coastline as the plane climbs and turns toward Eastern Europe.
Greenland Ice Sheet
The most dramatic part of the flight, featuring massive glaciers, deep fjords, and floating icebergs in the North Atlantic.
Newfoundland
The wild, rocky inlets and untouched wilderness of the Canadian Maritimes as you re-enter North American airspace.
Manhattan Skyline
On specific landing patterns (Runway 13L/R), the right side offers a breathtaking view of the Chrysler Building and Empire State Building.
The right side is essential for viewing Greenland, which usually occurs 6-7 hours into the flight. Since most IST-JFK flights depart in the morning and arrive in the afternoon, the sun will be on the left (south), meaning the right side has better, glare-free lighting for photography of the Arctic landscapes. Keep your window shade up as you cross the 50th parallel to catch the first glimpse of the ice fields.
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Bosphorus & Istanbul
Aerial views of the historic peninsula and the bridges connecting Europe and Asia immediately after takeoff.
The Alps
Distant views of the snow-capped Austrian and Swiss Alps depending on the specific southern airway taken.
Irish Coastline
The lush green cliffs of southern Ireland before the aircraft begins its long crossing of the North Atlantic.
The Hamptons
Clear views of the luxury estates and sandy beaches of Long Island's south shore during the final approach.
Sit on the left if you prefer to avoid the direct southern sun for the majority of this westbound flight. This side provides the best views of the European mainland and is often better for seeing the shoreline of Long Island and the Atlantic beaches during the descent into JFK. Choose a seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the ground isn't obstructed during the scenic departure from Istanbul.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 8,027 km (4,988 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 27 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: International
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