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JFK → ZRH
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Zürich Airport (Zurich)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers the most diverse scenery, including the iconic New York City skyline and Long Island coast after takeoff, followed by potential views of the Canadian Maritimes and the rugged coastline of Ireland or the UK upon arrival in Europe.
NYC Skyline
Spectacular views of Manhattan and the skyscrapers of Queens and Brooklyn immediately after takeoff from JFK.
Long Island Sound
A clear view of the northern coastline of Long Island and the Connecticut shore during the initial climb.
Maritime Canada
Depending on the North Atlantic Track, you may see the rugged peninsulas of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland.
Irish Coastline
The first landfall in Europe often reveals the dramatic green cliffs and bays of the West of Ireland.
Rhine River Valley
During the descent into Zurich, the plane often passes over the winding Rhine River and the border between Germany and Switzerland.
Choose the left side for the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis during the middle of the night if the flight path is northerly. Keep your window shade closed during the mid-flight to sleep, but open it about 90 minutes before landing to catch the European coastline. If taking off to the East (Runway 13L/R), sit on the left for a stunning loop back around the city.
North Atlantic Sunrise
Being an eastbound flight, the right side provides a front-row seat to a vivid sunrise over the clouds.
French Countryside
Rolling hills and neat agricultural patterns of Northern France are visible during the early morning descent.
The Swiss Alps
Distant but majestic views of the snow-capped Alpine peaks to the south as the aircraft prepares for its final approach.
Lake Zurich
If the approach is from the north, the right side offers views of the lake stretching toward the mountains.
Zurich City Center
A glimpse of the Limmat river and the historic Old Town just before touching down at ZRH.
The right side is ideal if you enjoy watching the sunrise, though it can become quite bright and warm as the sun rises higher. During winter months, the Alpine views to the south are particularly striking with heavy snow cover. For the best view of the Alps on arrival, look slightly forward and toward the horizon during the initial descent.
Distance: 6,309 km (3,920 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 25 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)
Route Type: International
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