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PEK destination photo
JFK destination photo

PEKJFK

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the best potential for viewing the Northern Lights during the long polar transit and typically provides a more dramatic perspective of the Manhattan skyline during the descent into JFK.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Siberian Highlands

Stunning views of the rugged, snow-capped mountains in the Russian Far East and the Chukotka Peninsula.

🌌

Aurora Borealis

Prime positioning to witness the Northern Lights during the dark winter months as the plane crosses high latitudes.

❄️

Arctic Ice Caps

Aerial vistas of the shifting sea ice and frozen expanses of the Arctic Ocean near the North Pole.

🌊

Hudson Bay

The flight path often crosses the western edge of this massive inland sea, showing unique coastal ice patterns.

🏙️

Manhattan Skyline

On many common approach patterns to JFK, the left side provides a panoramic view of the Empire State Building and Central Park.

Sit behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the horizon. If flying in winter, keep your window shade open during the dark segments to spot the Aurora Borealis. For the New York arrival, the 'Park Visual' approach usually favors the left side for city views.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🌋

Kamchatka Volcanoes

If the route tracks slightly south, you may see the steaming peaks of the Kamchatka Peninsula's volcanic chain.

🏔️

Brooks Range

Views of the northernmost mountain range in North America stretching across the Alaskan wilderness.

🧊

Canadian Shield

A mosaic of millions of small lakes and ancient granite carved by glaciers across Northern Canada.

🌅

Atlantic Sunrise

Spectacular sunrise views over the Eastern Seaboard as the flight prepares for its morning arrival.

🏖️

Long Island Shoreline

Clear views of the Hamptons and the sandy beaches of the South Shore during the final approach.

The right side is ideal for capturing the sunrise as you head south toward New York. It is generally quieter for sleeping as it faces away from the most intense direct sunlight during the early parts of the flight when traveling eastbound.

Top Activities in New York
Route Information

Distance: 10,978 km (6,821 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 55 min

Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)

Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)

Route Type: International

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