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ROC → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Greater Rochester International Airport (Rochester) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Finger Lakes shortly after takeoff and the iconic Manhattan skyline during the descent and final approach into JFK.
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Finger Lakes Region
View the elongated glacial lakes including Canandaigua and Seneca Lakes early in the flight.
Catskill Mountains
Rolling green peaks and forested ridges of the northern Catskills visible during mid-flight.
Hudson River Valley
The winding Hudson River serves as a major landmark as you transition toward the metropolitan area.
Manhattan Skyline
Unparalleled views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Midtown skyscrapers during the arrival sequence.
Queens and Long Island Sound
A close-up look at the bridges connecting the boroughs and the northern coastline of Long Island.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Manhattan skyline on arrival; most flight paths from the north bank left over the city. Morning flights are ideal as the sun is behind you, illuminating the Finger Lakes and NYC buildings perfectly. Look out immediately after takeoff to see the dense cluster of lakes south of Rochester.
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Susquehanna River
Observe the wide, shallow river winding through the southern tier of New York.
The Poconos
Dense forest cover and recreational lakes of the Pocono Mountains in northeastern Pennsylvania.
Newark and Jersey City
The industrial and residential sprawl of New Jersey, leading up to the Hudson River.
Statue of Liberty
Depending on the wind and runway, you may catch a distant view of Liberty Island in the harbor.
Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge
The massive suspension bridge connecting Staten Island and Brooklyn during the final turn.
The right side is excellent for sunset views on evening flights. While you may miss the direct view of the Manhattan core, you often get a great perspective of the Jersey City waterfront and the Verrazzano Bridge. Watch for the Delaware Water Gap in the distance if the flight path stays slightly west.
Book Hotels in New YorkDistance: 424 km (263 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 42 min
Departure: ROC (43.118900299072266, -77.67240142822266)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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