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JFK → GYE
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (Guayaquil)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the U.S. East Coast, the mountainous landscape of Cuba, and a spectacular entry into South America over the Panama Canal and the Andes mountains.
Atlantic Barrier Islands
Detailed views of the Jersey Shore and the Outer Banks of North Carolina as you fly south.
Cuban Landscapes
A long transit over the island of Cuba, featuring agricultural plains and tropical coastlines.
Panama Canal
On clear days, you can spot the Pacific entrance to the canal and the heavy traffic of cargo ships waiting to transit.
The Andes
The stunning transition from the Pacific Ocean to the snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Ecuadorian Andes.
Guayaquil Skyline
A full view of the city center and the Cerro Santa Ana hillside during the approach to GYE.
The right side is premier for sunset views on evening flights as you head south. Position yourself behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the Andes during the final 45 minutes of flight. The Panama Canal is a highlight to watch for approximately 5 hours after departure; it will appear as a distinct break in the lush green isthmus.
NYC Skyline
Dramatic views of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge shortly after takeoff.
The Bahamas
Aerial perspectives of the turquoise waters and white sand cays of the Exuma island chain.
Hispaniola Peaks
The rugged, mountainous terrain of Haiti and the Dominican Republic visible as you cross the Caribbean.
Guayas River Delta
The expansive river network and mangrove forests leading into the Gulf of Guayaquil on final descent.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. This side provides the best views of the Atlantic coastline immediately following a JFK departure, especially if the plane loops south over the ocean. Keep your camera ready about 2.5 to 3 hours into the flight for the vibrant blues of the Caribbean shallows.
Distance: 4,799 km (2,982 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 39 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: GYE (-2.15741991997, -79.88359832760001)
Route Type: International
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