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JFK → RUH
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to King Khaled International Airport (Riyadh)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side typically offers superior views of the Anatolian Plateau and the rugged northern terrain of Turkey, along with a more dramatic sunrise during the trans-European leg.
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Long Island Shoreline
Bird's eye view of the Hamptons and the various barrier islands along the New York coast shortly after takeoff.
Anatolian Plateau
Dramatic, high-altitude landscapes and mountain peaks as the flight traverses central and eastern Turkey.
Black Sea Coastline
The deep blue of the Black Sea meeting the steep, forested mountains of the Pontic range.
European Sunrise
Vibrant colors over the horizon as day breaks during the transit from Western to Eastern Europe.
Since this eastbound flight departs JFK in the late evening, the Atlantic crossing will be in total darkness. Expect the sun to rise rapidly over Europe; if you want to see the Turkish mountains, ensure your window shade is open about 8-9 hours into the flight. The left side avoids the direct, harsh glare of the southern sun during the final approach into Riyadh.
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Manhattan Skyline
On specific takeoff patterns from Runway 13R, a banking turn reveals the iconic skyscrapers of New York City.
Mediterranean Glimpses
Distant views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea and the southern coastlines of Europe or North Africa.
Al Nafud Desert
The striking red sand dunes of the Great Nafud in northern Saudi Arabia, visible during the descent.
Riyadh Grid
The sprawling, brightly lit geometric layout of Riyadh's urban center during night arrivals.
The right side is ideal for desert photography as you enter Saudi airspace. Watch for the 'Kingdom Centre' tower on the right during the final approach if landing from the north. Be aware that the afternoon sun can be quite intense on this side of the aircraft during the final hours of flight, which may necessitate keeping the shade partially closed to maintain cabin temperature.
Book Hotels in RiyadhDistance: 10,480 km (6,512 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 20 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: RUH (24.957599639892575, 46.69879913330078)
Route Type: International
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