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TYS destination photo
LGA destination photo

TYSLGA

Which side of the plane to sit from McGhee Tyson Airport (Knoxville) to La Guardia Airport (New York)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is the definitive choice for the iconic approach into LaGuardia, typically offering breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the bridges connecting the boroughs.

Right Side Highlights
9.5
🏔️

Blue Ridge Peaks

Dramatic views of the easternmost Appalachian ridge as you cruise toward the Mid-Atlantic.

🏛️

National Mall

Distant but recognizable views of the Washington Monument and the Potomac River on clear days.

🌊

Chesapeake Bay

The sparkling waters and intricate coastline of the northern Chesapeake region.

🗽

Statue of Liberty

A classic view of Lady Liberty in the harbor during the descent over New York Bay.

🏙️

Midtown Manhattan

Unparalleled views of the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and Billionaires' Row on the final approach.

The right side is essential for the 'Parkway Visual' or 'Expressway Visual' approaches into LGA. Sit behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the NYC skyline. Evening flights are spectacular on this side, as the city lights create a shimmering landscape, though the setting sun can be bright during late afternoon departures.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Great Smoky Mountains

Aerial views of the misty, ancient peaks surrounding Knoxville during the initial climb.

🌲

Shenandoah Valley

The distinct linear ridges of the Appalachian Mountains stretching across Virginia.

🏙️

Philadelphia Skyline

Visibility of the Center City skyscrapers as the flight path crosses into the Northeast Corridor.

🌉

George Washington Bridge

A top-down view of the world's busiest motor vehicle bridge during the northern arrival sequence.

Choose the left side if you prefer seeing the dense forest canopies of the Appalachians. For the best lighting, morning flights avoid direct glare on this side, making it easier to photograph the transition from the Tennessee wilderness to the urban sprawl of the Jersey City area.

Top Activities in New York
Route Information

Distance: 1,041 km (647 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min

Departure: TYS (35.81100082, -83.99400329999999)

Arrival: LGA (40.77719879, -73.87259674)

Route Type: Domestic

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