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JFK → CLT
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior sequence of urban landscapes, beginning with an iconic view of the Manhattan skyline upon departure and continuing with the major metropolitan hubs of the Northeast Corridor before approaching the Appalachian foothills.
Manhattan Skyline
Breathtaking views of the Empire State Building, Central Park, and One World Trade Center during the initial climb.
Philadelphia
The dense urban grid of Center City and the winding Delaware River are clearly visible to the west.
Washington D.C.
On clear days, the National Mall, the Capitol building, and the Pentagon can be spotted from high altitude.
Appalachian Ridge
The rolling blue peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains frame the western horizon throughout the flight.
Charlotte Motor Speedway
A massive, distinct oval landmark located in Concord, visible during the approach to Charlotte Douglas.
Uptown Charlotte
The cluster of skyscrapers in Charlotte's financial district is prominent during the final landing phase.
Sit on the right for the most consistent urban scenery. Late afternoon flights are particularly beautiful as the sun sets over the Appalachian Mountains to the west. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the NYC skyline, and watch for the Charlotte Motor Speedway about 10 minutes before landing.
Statue of Liberty
A close-up view of Liberty Island and the harbor immediately after taking off toward the south.
Jersey Shore
Continuous views of the Atlantic coastline, including the boardwalks of Atlantic City.
Chesapeake Bay
Crossing the massive expanse of the bay with views of the Bay Bridge and various islands.
Norfolk Naval Base
The world's largest naval station is often visible as you transition into Virginia air space.
North Carolina Forests
Dense, lush green canopies of the Piedmont region as the plane begins its final descent.
The left side is best for morning flights to see the sun rising over the Atlantic Ocean. It is also the side to choose if you want to see the complex wetlands and estuaries of the Maryland and Virginia coastlines. For the best view of the Statue of Liberty, hope for a southerly departure from JFK.
Distance: 871 km (541 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Route Type: Domestic
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