Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff views of the Florida Keys are more visually distinctive and geographically dramatic than the landing approach. While both segments offer strong scenery, the unique turquoise shallow-water archipelago visible on departure is more memorable than the harbor approach.
Flown EYW to BOS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Key West to Boston is 1,375 miles (2,213 km), a flight of about 3 hours 20 minutes.
During cruise, the flight path crosses over the Atlantic Ocean and the Carolinas. Notable features include the Georgia and South Carolina coastlines (around 2 hours into flight), the Outer Banks of North Carolina, and eventually the New England coast. At altitude, you may see the Appalachian Mountains as a distant ridge on the western horizon during the approach to Boston, though they won't be a dominant feature. The Atlantic coastline becomes increasingly visible as you approach New England, with Cape Cod visible during the final descent phase.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from EYW
RIGHTRight-side seats offer immediate views of the Florida Keys archipelago stretching northwest toward the mainland. The shallow turquoise waters and island chain are most visible during the initial climb-out heading northeast from Key West.
Landing at BOS
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Boston. You'll see the Atlantic coastline, Boston Harbor, and the city skyline as you descend from the northeast. The harbor islands and waterfront are distinctive from altitude.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Key West International (EYW) to General Edward Lawrence Logan International (BOS)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Key West to Boston. Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff views of the Florida Keys are more visually distinctive and geographically dramatic than the landing approach. While both segments offer strong scenery, the unique turquoise shallow-water archipelago visible on departure is more memorable than the harbor approach.
What can I see during takeoff from Key West International in Key West?
During takeoff from Key West International (EYW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer immediate views of the Florida Keys archipelago stretching northwest toward the mainland. The shallow turquoise waters and island chain are most visible during the initial climb-out heading northeast from Key West. Notable sights include: Florida Keys (Marquesas Keys, Dry Tortugas to the west), Gulf of Mexico, Straits of Florida, mainland Florida coastline.
What can I see when landing at General Edward Lawrence Logan International in Boston?
When landing at General Edward Lawrence Logan International (BOS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Boston. You'll see the Atlantic coastline, Boston Harbor, and the city skyline as you descend from the northeast. The harbor islands and waterfront are distinctive from altitude. Notable sights include: Boston Harbor and harbor islands, Atlantic Ocean, Massachusetts coastline, Boston skyline and downtown district.
How long is the flight from Key West to Boston?
The flight from Key West International (EYW) to General Edward Lawrence Logan International (BOS) takes about 3 hours 20 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,375 miles (2,213 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Key West to Boston flight path pass over?
During cruise, the flight path crosses over the Atlantic Ocean and the Carolinas. Notable features include the Georgia and South Carolina coastlines (around 2 hours into flight), the Outer Banks of North Carolina, and eventually the New England coast. At altitude, you may see the Appalachian Mountains as a distant ridge on the western horizon during the approach to Boston, though they won't be a dominant feature. The Atlantic coastline becomes increasingly visible as you approach New England, with Cape Cod visible during the final descent phase.