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JFK destination photo
YYZ destination photo

JFKYYZ

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is generally superior as it provides iconic views of the Manhattan skyline shortly after takeoff and the most frequent sightings of Niagara Falls during the descent into Toronto.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Manhattan Skyline

Unrivaled views of the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Hudson River immediately following a JFK departure.

⛰️

Appalachian Mountains

The rugged terrain of the Poconos and the Delaware Water Gap visible as you cross into Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

🍷

Finger Lakes

Views of the western glacial lakes, including Seneca and Keuka, cutting through the New York landscape.

🌊

Niagara Falls

The mist and horseshoe shape of the falls are often visible on the port side during the approach into Pearson International.

🏗️

Buffalo Waterfront

The industrial heritage and modern waterfront of Buffalo where Lake Erie flows into the Niagara River.

For the best New York City views, select a seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. On the approach to Toronto, keep your eyes peeled roughly 15 minutes before landing for the Niagara River and the distinct white mist of the falls. Morning flights offer the best lighting for photography on this side.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌉

Hudson Valley

A sweeping view of the Tappan Zee Bridge and the historic estates lining the Hudson River.

🌲

Catskill Mountains

Dense forest cover and rolling peaks of the Catskill Park wilderness area in upstate New York.

🏠

Rochester and Genesee River

The urban center of Rochester and the dramatic High Falls where the river enters Lake Ontario.

🚤

Lake Ontario

The vast blue expanse of the lake as the aircraft crosses the international border into Canadian airspace.

🗼

Toronto Skyline

A stunning view of the CN Tower and the downtown financial district if the aircraft approaches from the east.

The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to capture the sunset over the Great Lakes. If the flight path takes a northern loop around Toronto, this side offers the best view of the city's dense urban core and the Lake Ontario shoreline. Seasonal foliage in the Catskills makes this side particularly beautiful in October.

Top Activities in Toronto
Route Information

Distance: 589 km (366 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 59 min

Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)

Arrival: YYZ (43.6772003174, -79.63059997559999)

Route Type: International

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