The left side wins on the strength of two standout moments - the Manhattan skyline at departure and the volcanic Central Valley approach into San Jose - both of which bookend a long, mostly oceanic cruise phase that offers little scenery on either side.
Flown EWR to SJO? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Newark to San Jose is 2,208 miles (3,553 km), a flight of about 5 hours 15 minutes.
Bahamas islands and shallow turquoise banks, eastern Cuba coastline, open Caribbean Sea, Nicaraguan coast near the Costa Rican border
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from EWR
LEFTDeparting EWR on runway 22 and turning south, the Manhattan skyline, Hudson River, and New York Harbor unfold directly off the left side of the aircraft during initial climb. This is one of the most recognizable urban views in North American aviation.
Landing at SJO
LEFTOn approach to SJO's single runway 07, aircraft typically fly a pattern that brings the volcanic peaks north of San Jose - Poás and Barva - into view on the left side as the plane lines up for the northeast-facing landing. The dramatic Central Valley setting surrounded by volcanoes is unique among Central American approaches.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Newark Liberty International (EWR) to Juan Santamaria International (SJO)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Newark to San Jose. The left side wins on the strength of two standout moments - the Manhattan skyline at departure and the volcanic Central Valley approach into San Jose - both of which bookend a long, mostly oceanic cruise phase that offers little scenery on either side.
What can I see during takeoff from Newark Liberty International in Newark?
During takeoff from Newark Liberty International (EWR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing EWR on runway 22 and turning south, the Manhattan skyline, Hudson River, and New York Harbor unfold directly off the left side of the aircraft during initial climb. This is one of the most recognizable urban views in North American aviation. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline, Hudson River, New York Harbor, Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge.
What can I see when landing at Juan Santamaria International in San Jose?
When landing at Juan Santamaria International (SJO), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach to SJO's single runway 07, aircraft typically fly a pattern that brings the volcanic peaks north of San Jose - Poás and Barva - into view on the left side as the plane lines up for the northeast-facing landing. The dramatic Central Valley setting surrounded by volcanoes is unique among Central American approaches. Notable sights include: Poás Volcano, Barva Volcano, Central Valley of Costa Rica, Irazú Volcano in the distance.
How long is the flight from Newark to San Jose?
The flight from Newark Liberty International (EWR) to Juan Santamaria International (SJO) takes about 5 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,208 miles (3,553 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Newark to San Jose flight path pass over?
Bahamas islands and shallow turquoise banks, eastern Cuba coastline, open Caribbean Sea, Nicaraguan coast near the Costa Rican border