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JFK → PSE
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Mercedita Airport (Ponce)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers iconic views of the New York City skyline and the New Jersey coastline shortly after takeoff, followed by a dramatic descent over Puerto Rico's central mountain range into the southern city of Ponce.
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New York City Skyline
Unparalleled views of Manhattan, the Freedom Tower, and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge during a southern departure.
Outer Banks
If the flight path hugs the coast, the thin, sandy strips of North Carolina's barrier islands are clearly visible.
Cordillera Central
A magnificent view of Puerto Rico's 'spine,' featuring steep green peaks and deep valleys during the descent.
Serrallés Castle
The historic hilltop mansion and the Cruceta del Vigía cross are visible just before landing in Ponce.
Historic Ponce
A bird's-eye view of the 'Pearl of the South' and its unique grid-style colonial architecture.
Choosing the right side is highly recommended for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. During the final 20 minutes of the flight, the right side provides the best view of the dramatic transition from the Atlantic Ocean to the rugged mountainous interior of Puerto Rico. Look specifically for the 'Cruceta del Vigía' on the hillside as it serves as a landmark that you are seconds from touching down at Mercedita Airport.
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Atlantic Sunrise
Early morning departures provide a stunning view of the sun rising over the open Atlantic Ocean.
El Yunque National Forest
Distant views of the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System as you cross the island.
Vieques & Culebra
On clear days, the Spanish Virgin Islands are visible to the east during the initial descent.
Port of Ponce
Views of the Caribbean coastline and the industrial shipping lanes as the plane turns for final approach.
The left side is perfect for passengers on red-eye or early morning flights who wish to see the sunrise. As you approach Puerto Rico, the left side offers the best perspective of the island's lush eastern coastline and the distant peaks of the Luquillo Mountains. Ensure your window is clear of condensation as the humid tropical air hits the plane during descent.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for Puerto RicoDistance: 2,610 km (1,622 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 29 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: PSE (18.00830078125, -66.56300354003906)
Route Type: International
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