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LAX → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the iconic Manhattan skyline during the descent into JFK, coupled with breathtaking views of the Utah wilderness and the Colorado Rockies.
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San Gabriel Mountains
Dramatic views of the rugged mountain range immediately following the eastbound climb out of Los Angeles.
Utah Red Rocks
Aerial perspectives of Zion National Park and the intricate canyons of southern Utah's high desert.
Front Range Rockies
Spectacular snow-capped peaks near Denver, offering some of the most impressive alpine views in North America.
Manhattan Skyline
On typical arrival paths from the northwest, the left side provides a panoramic view of Central Park and the Empire State Building.
Sit forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Rocky Mountains. On evening flights, the left side captures the city lights of Chicago or Cleveland depending on the jet stream. Be ready with your camera 20 minutes before landing for the New York City skyline.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesThe Grand Canyon
The massive scale of the Colorado River's path is often visible on the right side approximately 50-70 minutes after takeoff.
Lake Mead & Hoover Dam
The deep blue waters of Lake Mead provide a sharp contrast against the surrounding arid Nevada landscape.
St. Louis Arch
Look for the tiny silver curve of the Gateway Arch as the flight crosses the Mississippi River.
Long Island South Shore
During the final approach, enjoy views of the Atlantic coastline, barrier islands, and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.
The right side is the 'sunny side' for eastbound flights during the day; bring sunglasses to mitigate glare. This side is ideal for spotting the Grand Canyon, which usually sits south of the flight path. During winter, look for the frozen patterns on the Great Lakes if the route dips south.
Book Hotels in New YorkDistance: 3,974 km (2,469 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 41 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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