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JFK → LOS
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Murtala Muhammed International Airport (Lagos)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the African interior, including the dramatic shift from the Sahara's golden sands to the tropical greenery of West Africa and the sprawling Lagos mainland.
New York Skyline
Breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River immediately following takeoff from JFK.
Sahara Desert
Vast stretches of the Mauritanian desert with intricate sand dune patterns visible as the flight enters African airspace.
Adrar Plateau
Rugged canyons and mountain passes in the Sahara region that provide a stark contrast to the surrounding dunes.
Sahelian Savanna
The gradual transition from arid desert to the semi-arid grasslands of Mali and northern Nigeria.
Lagos Mainland
A dense urban view of the Ikeja and mainland districts during the final approach into Murtala Muhammed Airport.
Since this flight typically departs JFK in the evening, the left side is perfectly positioned to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Sahara Desert approximately 6-7 hours into the flight. For the best landscape clarity, avoid flying during the Harmattan season (December to February) when thick dust haze from the desert can significantly reduce visibility across West Africa.
Atlantic Ocean
Expansive views of the North Atlantic, particularly beautiful during the moonlit hours of the overnight crossing.
Cape Verde Archipelago
Depending on the flight path, distant views of the volcanic islands sitting off the coast of Senegal.
Senegalese Coastline
The meeting point of the deep blue Atlantic and the white sandy beaches of the West African coast.
Gulf of Guinea
Dozens of cargo ships and tankers anchored in the bight, appearing as small lights or dots near the Lagos port.
Victoria Island
Aerial perspectives of the Eko Atlantic project and the upscale waterfront developments of Lagos.
The right side is ideal for passengers who enjoy coastal scenery. As you descend into Lagos, look out for the distinctive shoreline and the bustling shipping lanes of the Gulf of Guinea. If the flight path takes a more southerly route, you might catch a glimpse of the Canary Islands or Cape Verde; use a window seat behind the wing to ensure your view isn't blocked by the engine.
Distance: 8,444 km (5,247 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 56 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: LOS (6.5773701667785645, 3.321160078048706)
Route Type: International
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