Loading map...
JFK → GUA
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to La Aurora Airport (Guatemala City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic views, including the Manhattan skyline upon departure and the spectacular volcanic peaks surrounding Guatemala City during the final approach.
Manhattan Skyline
Stunning views of the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center if departing south from JFK.
Outer Banks
The thin, sandy barrier islands of North Carolina visible as the plane hugs the US Eastern Seaboard.
Florida Peninsula
Distant views of the Florida coastline and the bustling cities of the Gold Coast.
Volcán de Fuego
One of the world's most active volcanoes, often seen puffing smoke during the final approach into GUA.
Volcán de Agua
The massive, perfectly conical volcano that dominates the horizon to the west of Guatemala City.
Antigua Guatemala
Glances of the colonial city nestled in the valley between the volcanoes just before landing.
The right side is essential for volcano spotting. Sit behind the wing to ensure your view of Volcán de Fuego and Volcán de Agua isn't obstructed. On the approach to GUA, the plane often flies very close to these peaks. For the best lighting on the volcanoes, look for mid-morning to early afternoon flights when the sun is high or to the east.
Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge
Aerial view of the massive suspension bridge connecting Brooklyn and Staten Island shortly after takeoff.
Atlantic Horizon
Deep blue vistas of the open Atlantic as the flight tracks south-southwest along the coast.
Bahamian Outer Islands
Vibrant turquoise water and coral reefs if the flight path tracks slightly east of Florida.
Motagua River Valley
The largest river in Guatemala winding through the lush, mountainous eastern highlands during descent.
Sierra de las Minas
Dense, high-altitude cloud forests and mountain ridges visible just before reaching the capital.
Choose this side for sunrise views on early morning flights. While mostly ocean-facing during the mid-flight, the descent into GUA provides a great perspective of the deep valleys and the eastern highlands of Guatemala. Keep your window shade open as you cross the Caribbean coast for the best water color gradients.
Distance: 3,321 km (2,064 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 54 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: GUA (14.5833, -90.527496)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.