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JFK → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is superior for catching the Aurora Borealis during the night portion, the spectacular ice sheets of Greenland, and the coastline of the Persian Gulf upon arrival.
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Greenland Ice Sheet
Breathtaking views of the world's second-largest ice body and coastal glaciers if the route tracking is northerly.
Aurora Borealis
High probability of viewing the Northern Lights during the transit over the North Atlantic in winter months.
Caucasus Mountains
Sharp, snow-capped peaks separating Europe and Asia, specifically visible over Georgia and Azerbaijan.
Caspian Sea
The world's largest inland body of water, often appearing deep turquoise from high altitudes.
Persian Gulf Coast
Views of the shimmering coastline and the distant Dubai skyline as the plane begins its descent into Abu Dhabi.
Choose the Left Side for the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights, which are most active about 4-6 hours into the flight. For the best view of Greenland, ensure you have a window seat for the first third of the journey. Upon approach to AUH, this side often provides a glimpse of the Burj Khalifa in the distance if visibility is clear.
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Manhattan Skyline
Potential for iconic views of the New York City skyscrapers shortly after takeoff from JFK.
British Isles
Patchwork green fields of England or Scotland depending on the specific Great Circle track.
Anatolian Plateau
The rugged, sun-drenched highlands of Turkey featuring unique geological folds.
Zagros Mountains
Incredible folded mountain ridges in Iran, appearing like waves of rock in the afternoon sun.
Yas Island
Views of the bright red roof of Ferrari World and the Yas Marina Circuit during final approach.
The Right Side is excellent for viewing the Zagros Mountains in Iran, which are most vivid during the late morning or afternoon sun. On descent, keep your camera ready for Yas Island landmarks. If departing JFK to the east, the initial climb may offer a wide-angle view of the Long Island coastline.
Book Hotels in Abu DhabiDistance: 11,031 km (6,854 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 59 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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