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SNA → EWR
Which side of the plane to sit from John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana) to Newark Liberty International Airport (Newark)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this transcontinental route, offering the best views of the high Rocky Mountain peaks and the iconic Manhattan skyline during the final approach into Newark.
San Gabriel Mountains
Dramatic views of the high peaks bordering the Los Angeles basin immediately after climbing out of Orange County.
Lake Mead
The vast blue waters of the reservoir and the engineering marvel of Hoover Dam are often visible on the northern flight path.
Central Rockies
Uninterrupted views of the highest peaks in Colorado, including the snow-capped Front Range and Longs Peak.
Chicago Skyline
On clear days, the distant skyscrapers of the Windy City and the southern tip of Lake Michigan can be spotted.
Manhattan Skyline
The ultimate prize: a panoramic view of the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center during the descent into EWR.
Book an early morning departure for the best lighting over the Western deserts. For the Newark arrival, the left side typically gets the 'scenic' view of Manhattan if the airport is landing to the South (Runway 22), as the plane banks right over the city.
Newport Beach Coast
Immediate views of the Southern California coastline and the Pacific Ocean as the plane turns east after takeoff.
Painted Desert
The vibrant, multi-colored rock formations of northern Arizona provide a stunning tapestry during the first hour of flight.
Great Plains Grids
The mesmerizing geometric patterns of circular irrigation fields across Kansas and Nebraska.
Appalachian Ridges
The distinctive folded mountains and lush forests of Pennsylvania mark the beginning of the East Coast descent.
Statue of Liberty
A close-up view of Liberty Island and the harbor is often possible just seconds before touchdown on Runway 4.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to enjoy a sunset over the wings. Keep your window shade open during the final 10 minutes; if the flight approaches from the south, you'll have an incredible view of the Statue of Liberty and the Verrazzano Bridge.
Distance: 3,908 km (2,428 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 36 min
Departure: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Arrival: EWR (40.69250106811523, -74.168701171875)
Route Type: Domestic
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