Loading map...
PBI → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Palm Beach International Airport (West Palm Beach) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this northbound coastal route as it provides a continuous view of the U.S. Eastern Seaboard's geography and concludes with a high probability of seeing the iconic Manhattan skyline during the JFK approach.
West Palm Beach Inland
Aerial views of the sprawling Florida suburbs and the distinct grid patterns of the Everglades' eastern edge during departure.
Charleston & Savannah
The historic harbor of Charleston and the winding Savannah River are often visible as the flight tracks north.
Chesapeake Bay
A massive view of the bay's intricate shoreline, including the Bay Bridge-Tunnel connecting Virginia's Eastern Shore.
Philadelphia & Jersey Shore
Distant views of the Philadelphia skyline and a clear look at the New Jersey Pine Barrens and coastal estuaries.
Manhattan Skyline
On many common approach patterns to JFK, the left side offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center.
Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, ensuring better visibility and photography conditions. During the final 20 minutes of the flight, stay alert as the aircraft often banks over the harbor, providing the most dramatic views of New York City.
Florida Gold Coast
Immediate views of the turquoise Atlantic waters and the high-rise beaches of Jupiter and Juno Beach upon takeoff.
Cape Canaveral
A chance to spot the Kennedy Space Center launch pads and the distinct VAB building if the flight path hugs the coastline.
The Outer Banks
The thin, fragile ribbon of North Carolina's barrier islands, including Cape Hatteras, stretching into the deep blue ocean.
Atlantic Horizon
Unobstructed views of the sunrise for early morning departures and the vastness of the Atlantic shipping lanes.
Long Island South Shore
Clear views of the Rockaways, Jones Beach, and the Great South Bay during the final descent into JFK.
The right side is ideal for sunrise enthusiasts on early morning departures. While you miss the Manhattan skyline on most approaches, you get a much better view of the Atlantic coastline and the unique geography of the Outer Banks. Watch for the 'V' shaped wake of cargo ships in the shipping lanes below.
Distance: 1,657 km (1,030 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 13 min
Departure: PBI (26.68320083618164, -80.09559631347656)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.