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JFK → DXB
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Dubai International Airport (Dubai)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is typically superior for this long-haul route as it offers prime views of the Greenland ice sheets on polar tracks and provides the iconic aerial perspective of the Dubai coastline and Burj Khalifa during the standard approach into DXB.
Greenland Ice Sheet
Breathtaking views of massive glaciers and deep blue meltwater lakes if the flight takes a northern polar track.
The North Sea
Views of the rugged Norwegian coastline and offshore wind farms during the crossing into Europe.
The Bosphorus
The sparkling strait dividing Europe and Asia near Istanbul is often visible during the mid-section of the flight.
The World Islands
The man-made archipelago shaped like a world map is best viewed from the left window during the final descent.
Downtown Dubai
Unrivaled views of the Burj Khalifa and the dense skyscraper cluster of the Financial Centre during landing.
For the best chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis during the Atlantic crossing, choose a night flight and sit on the left. On arrival at DXB, flights usually land facing Northwest or Southeast; the left side offers the most consistent views of the coastal developments like the Palm Jumeirah and World Islands regardless of the wind direction.
Manhattan Skyline
Immediate views of the New York City skyline and Long Island sound shortly after takeoff from JFK.
Central Europe
Glimpses of European city lights and diverse landscapes stretching across Germany and the Balkans.
Caucasus Mountains
The dramatic, snow-capped peaks of Georgia and Azerbaijan providing a rugged contrast to the plains.
Rub' al Khali Desert
The mesmerizing orange and red sand dunes of the Arabian Peninsula as you cross into UAE airspace.
Dubai Creek
A view of the historic district and the rapid expansion of the northern Dubai suburbs during approach.
The right side is ideal for catching a spectacular sunrise over the desert if your flight arrives in the early morning. It also offers a better view of the 'Old Dubai' districts (Deira and Bur Dubai) if the aircraft circles to the south before landing. Be aware that the sun will be on this side for most of the Southbound leg, which may require closing the window shade to avoid glare.
Distance: 11,002 km (6,836 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 57 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: DXB (25.252799987800003, 55.3643989563)
Route Type: International
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