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JFK → YYZ
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Toronto)?
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.
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.
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.
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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