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YYC → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Calgary International Airport (Calgary) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is prioritized for its spectacular overview of the Great Lakes and the high probability of viewing the Manhattan skyline and Central Park during the final descent into JFK.
Canadian Prairies
Expansive geometric patterns of Alberta and Saskatchewan's agricultural heartland visible early in the flight.
Lake Superior
The rugged northern wilderness and deep blue waters of the largest Great Lake roughly two hours after takeoff.
Toronto Skyline
A panoramic view of the CN Tower and the urban corridor along the northern shore of Lake Ontario.
Adirondack Mountains
Dense forests and the high peaks of the massive Adirondack Park in Upstate New York during the descent phase.
Manhattan Skyline
Iconic views of New York City's skyscrapers and the Hudson River when the flight approaches from the north.
Choose the left side for evening flights to avoid the glare of the southern sun and to see the glowing lights of the 'Golden Horseshoe' region around Toronto. This side is also best for seeing the city if the plane follows the common Hudson River arrival route.
Canadian Rockies
Distant, snow-capped peaks of the Rockies visible to the west immediately following departure from Calgary.
The Badlands
The unique eroded geological formations and winding river systems of the Dakotas and eastern Montana.
Finger Lakes
The distinctive long, narrow glacial lakes of Central New York visible about 45 minutes before landing.
Appalachian Mountains
The ancient, forested parallel ridges of the Appalachian range stretching toward the Eastern Seaboard.
Long Island Coastline
Views of the sandy Atlantic beaches and the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge if the plane circles south for landing.
The right side is ideal for morning departures to stay in the shade of the aircraft. It offers the best views of the Rockies during the initial climb and is the preferred side for seeing the Atlantic coastline during a southern approach into JFK.
Distance: 3,277 km (2,036 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 51 min
Departure: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: International
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