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STL destination photo
JFK destination photo

STLJFK

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is the premier choice for this route, offering potential views of the Great Lakes to the north and the iconic Manhattan skyline upon arrival into JFK.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌉

Mississippi River

Aerial view of the massive river and the St. Louis Arch immediately after takeoff.

🏙️

Indianapolis Skyline

The dense urban grid and monument circle of Indiana's capital visible to the north.

🌊

Lake Erie

On clear days, the southern shoreline of Lake Erie is visible on the distant northern horizon.

⛰️

Pocono Mountains

Scenic views of the rolling Appalachian ridges and forested plateaus of Eastern Pennsylvania.

🗽

Manhattan Skyline

The ultimate highlight: a sweeping view of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and Midtown skyscrapers.

Book a window seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the New York City skyline during the descent. For flights departing STL in the late afternoon, the left side provides excellent lighting for photography as the sun sets behind the aircraft. During autumn, keep an eye out for the vibrant foliage colors over the Pennsylvania mountains.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🗼

Gateway Arch

A glimpse of the silver monument if the aircraft banks south during the initial climb.

🚜

Midwestern Patchwork

Stunning geometric patterns of agricultural fields across Illinois and Ohio.

🔔

Philadelphia

The skyline of the City of Brotherly Love is often visible about 20 minutes before landing.

🏖️

Jersey Shore

The sandy coastline and the Atlantic Ocean as the plane maneuvers for the JFK approach.

🌉

Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge

A clear view of the massive bridge connecting Staten Island and Brooklyn during the final turn.

The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. If the aircraft approaches JFK from the south (common in certain wind conditions), the right side offers a unique perspective of the Statue of Liberty and the harbor. It is also the best side for viewing the Atlantic coastline just before touchdown.

Top Activities in New York
Route Information

Distance: 1,433 km (890 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 55 min

Departure: STL (38.748697, -90.370003)

Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)

Route Type: Domestic

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