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SFO → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this transcontinental route, offering potential views of the Golden Gate Bridge upon departure, the Great Lakes mid-flight, and the most iconic views of the Manhattan skyline during the descent into JFK.
Search flights from SFO to JFK
San Francisco Bay
If departing to the north or west, you will see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Marin Headlands.
Lake Tahoe
A stunning view of the deep blue alpine lake nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Great Salt Lake
The massive expanse of Utah's inland sea and the surrounding desert salt flats.
Chicago & Lake Michigan
On northern tracks, you can see the Chicago skyline and the vast blue expanse of the Great Lakes.
Manhattan Skyline
Depending on the wind and landing pattern, this side provides a breathtaking view of the skyscrapers and Central Park.
For the best experience, choose a seat well ahead of or behind the wing. On morning flights, the sun will be on the right side of the plane, meaning the left side has perfect lighting for photography without glare. Keep an eye out about 30 minutes before landing for the NYC skyline.
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Yosemite National Park
Aerial views of the high Sierra peaks and the distinct granite formations of the valley.
Grand Basin
Dramatic desert landscapes and colorful rock formations across Nevada and Utah.
Colorado Rockies
The highest peaks of the Rocky Mountains, often snow-capped even in early summer.
Great Plains
The geometric 'patchwork quilt' of American agriculture stretching across the Midwest.
Appalachian Mountains
The ancient, rolling green ridges of Pennsylvania and the Delaware Water Gap.
The right side is ideal for passengers who enjoy desert geology and the rugged peaks of the central Rockies. On afternoon and evening flights, sit on this side to witness the sunset over the wing, though be prepared for direct sunlight for much of the journey.
Book Hotels in New YorkDistance: 4,152 km (2,580 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 53 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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