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LGA → PWM
Which side of the plane to sit from La Guardia Airport (New York) to Portland International Jetport Airport (Portland)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular coastal perspective, featuring the Long Island Sound, the entire Rhode Island and Massachusetts shoreline, a clear view of the Boston skyline, and the rugged, island-dotted entrance to Casco Bay.
Long Island Sound
Panoramic views of the waterway separating Long Island from the Connecticut coastline shortly after departure.
Narragansett Bay
Clear views of Newport, Rhode Island, and the complex network of islands and bridges in the bay.
Boston Skyline
A fantastic mid-flight view of the Boston metropolitan area, Logan Airport, and the harbor islands.
The North Shore
The rocky coastlines of Salem, Gloucester, and Cape Ann are visible as the flight enters New Hampshire/Maine airspace.
Casco Bay Islands
The iconic 'Calendar Islands' of Maine and the Portland Head Light are frequently visible during the approach to PWM.
The right side is the 'coastal side.' To see the Boston skyline clearly, look out about 30 minutes into the flight. On the final approach into Portland (PWM), the plane often flies over the ocean and turns inland, providing a stunning view of the Maine lighthouses and rocky shores. Afternoon flights may experience some sun glare on this side, so polarized sunglasses are recommended.
Manhattan Skyline
Immediate views of the Midtown and Upper East Side skyscrapers if the flight departs towards the north.
Hudson River Valley
A glimpse of the wide Hudson River and the Tappan Zee area during the initial climb out of the NYC area.
Hartford Skyline
The capital of Connecticut is often visible as the plane tracks north-northeast through the center of the state.
Central Massachusetts Forests
Vast stretches of dense New England forest land, particularly vibrant during the autumn foliage season.
Sebago Lake
One of Maine's largest and deepest lakes appears on the left during the final descent into the Portland area.
Sit on the left if you want the best chance of seeing the Manhattan skyline immediately after takeoff from LGA. For morning flights, this side will be in the shade, providing better conditions for photography without window glare. During the fall, this side is superior for viewing the changing colors of the inland New England forests.
Distance: 433 km (269 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 43 min
Departure: LGA (40.77719879, -73.87259674)
Arrival: PWM (43.64619827, -70.30930328)
Route Type: Domestic
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