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JFK → FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior land-based views including the rugged Canadian Maritimes and the first glimpses of the European coastline, plus potential Aurora Borealis sightings on northern tracks.
Long Island Sound
Aerial views of the New York and Connecticut coastlines immediately following takeoff from JFK.
Nova Scotia Coastline
Dramatic views of the jagged Atlantic Canadian coast and the lights of Halifax during the early flight phase.
Newfoundland Highlands
The last land visible before the Atlantic crossing, often featuring snow-capped peaks in spring.
Aurora Borealis
On higher latitude tracks during winter months, the northern sky often displays the Northern Lights.
Irish Coastline
First landfall usually reveals the lush green terrain and cliffs of Northern Ireland or the Republic.
Dutch Polders
Detailed views of the reclaimed land and intricate canal systems as you cross the Netherlands.
Select a window seat on the port side (typically 'A' seats). This flight is usually an overnight 'red-eye'; keep your window shade open during the first 2 hours for the Canadian coast and look north during the mid-flight darkness for auroras. In summer, the sun stays just below the northern horizon, creating a persistent 'permanent dusk' effect that is visually stunning.
Transatlantic Sunrise
Experience a rapid and intense sunrise over the ocean as the aircraft flies east toward the morning.
English Channel
Distant views of heavy shipping traffic and the southern UK or northern French coastlines.
Rhine River Valley
Spectacular views of the winding river and medieval castles during the descent into Frankfurt.
Frankfurt Skyline
A clear view of 'Mainhattan', the financial district's skyscrapers, during the final approach phase.
Spessart Mountains
Rolling forested hills of central Germany visible just before touchdown at FRA.
Select a window seat on the starboard side (typically 'K' or 'L' seats). Be prepared for very bright light during the sunrise segment; high-quality sunglasses are recommended. This side is particularly rewarding during the final 20 minutes of the flight for spotting the historic castles along the Rhine and the skyline of Frankfurt city center.
Distance: 6,189 km (3,846 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 17 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
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