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JFK → LGB
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Long Beach /Daugherty Field/ Airport (Long Beach)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side typically offers a superior view of the Manhattan skyline upon departure and more direct views of the high Rocky Mountain peaks and the Las Vegas area during the descent phase.
Manhattan Skyline
Iconic views of the New York City skyscrapers shortly after takeoff from JFK.
Rocky Mountains
Breathtaking snow-capped peaks and high-altitude terrain as you cross Colorado and Utah.
Colorado River
Winding blue waters carving through deep canyons in the western desert regions.
Las Vegas Strip
The concentrated cluster of mega-resorts and neon lights visible as you enter California airspace.
San Gabriel Mountains
The rugged northern boundary of the Los Angeles basin seen during the descent into Long Beach.
Choose the right side for the best chance to see NYC landmarks after takeoff. As you head west, watch for the snow-capped Rockies and the glittering lights of Las Vegas if flying at night. The descent offers views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the Hollywood Hills in the distance. This side avoids the direct southern sun for much of the westbound journey.
Appalachian Ridges
Deep green parallel ridges of the Pennsylvania and West Virginia mountains early in the flight.
Mississippi River
The massive waterway dividing the central United States, often crossed near St. Louis.
Painted Desert
Vibrant red and orange rock formations visible across New Mexico and Arizona.
Meteor Crater
A massive, well-preserved impact site visible in the Arizona desert landscape.
San Jacinto Peak
The dramatic mountain tower rising above the Coachella Valley during the final approach.
Sit on the left for a southern perspective of the Grand Canyon and the colorful New Mexico terrain. During the late afternoon, this side provides beautiful golden hour lighting over the desert southwest before the final descent over Orange County. Keep your window shade down during the mid-flight glare to preserve the view for later.
Distance: 3,958 km (2,459 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 39 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: LGB (33.81769943, -118.1520004)
Route Type: Domestic
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