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ROA → LGA
Which side of the plane to sit from Roanoke–Blacksburg Regional Airport (Roanoke VA) to La Guardia Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Appalachian Mountains upon departure and provides the iconic 'River Visual' approach view of the Manhattan skyline when landing at LGA.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Dramatic views of the rolling peaks and ridges immediately after departing Roanoke.
Shenandoah Valley
A scenic patchwork of farmland and the winding Shenandoah River corridor.
Washington D.C. Distance
On clear days, the National Mall and major monuments are visible to the east.
Philadelphia Skyline
A distant but clear view of the Center City skyscrapers as you cross into New Jersey.
Manhattan Skyline
The premier view of the Empire State Building, Central Park, and One World Trade Center.
Hudson River
The plane often tracks the river, offering a bird's-eye view of the George Washington Bridge.
Book a window seat on the left for the best chance of the legendary 'River Visual' approach into LaGuardia. Morning flights are ideal because the sun will be behind you, illuminating the Manhattan skyline perfectly. During autumn, the views of the Blue Ridge foliage are spectacular.
Smith Mountain Lake
A large, jagged reservoir visible to the southeast shortly after takeoff.
Chesapeake Bay
The massive, shimmering expanse of the bay is visible on the eastern horizon.
Jersey Shore
Views of the Atlantic coastline and the sandy barrier islands of New Jersey.
Statue of Liberty
Often visible in the New York Harbor during southern approaches to the airport.
Brooklyn & Manhattan Bridges
Excellent views of the spans crossing the East River during the final descent.
Flushing Meadows
The USTA National Tennis Center and Citi Field are visible just seconds before landing.
The right side is best for seeing the harbor and the outer boroughs. If the plane approaches from the south, you will get a great look at the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and Brooklyn. Sunset flights offer beautiful reflections off the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay.
Distance: 652 km (405 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min
Departure: ROA (37.3255, -79.975403)
Arrival: LGA (40.77719879, -73.87259674)
Route Type: Domestic
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