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TPE → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (Taipei) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft typically offers more consistent land-based scenery, including the Japanese mainland shortly after takeoff and the dramatic mountain ranges of Alaska and the Yukon.
Mount Fuji & Honshu
Depending on the specific airway, the snow-capped peak of Fuji and the Japanese Alps may be visible.
Aleutian Islands
The string of volcanic islands stretching across the North Pacific provides a dramatic landscape during the ocean crossing.
Alaska Range
Spectacular views of massive glaciers and the high peaks of the Denali region if the route stays south.
Great Lakes Region
Aerial views of the massive Lake Ontario and the surrounding forested regions of upstate New York.
Long Island Sound
Detailed views of the Connecticut and Long Island shorelines during the final descent into JFK.
The right side provides the best daylight views of the Japanese coast approximately 2-3 hours into the flight. As you cross into North America, the transition from the Aleutians to the Alaskan mainland is a highlight. Use a flight tracker to time your view of Mt. Fuji. Note that during summer months, this side will experience significant sunlight, which can make the cabin warm.
East China Sea
Initial ascent offers views of the turquoise waters and small islands of the Ryukyu archipelago.
Arctic Tundra
Stunning views of the frozen landscapes and geometric patterns of northern Canada during the polar transition.
Hudson Bay
Vast stretches of ice and remote coastlines as the flight heads south from the high latitudes.
Manhattan Skyline
On specific approach patterns (like the 'Parkway Visual'), the NYC skyline is visible in the distance before landing.
The left side is premier for spotting the Aurora Borealis during the long night segment over the Arctic. Keep the window shade down when sleeping to avoid the harsh polar sun, but check periodically for the northern lights. On approach to JFK, if the wind is from the west, the left side often captures the iconic Manhattan skyscrapers.
Distance: 12,545 km (7,795 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 14 hrs 46 min
Departure: TPE (25.0777, 121.233002)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: International
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