While takeoff from GRR is fairly flat and unremarkable on both sides, the left side wins overall thanks to the spectacular Manhattan skyline view during the LGA approach, which outweighs the modest scenery differences during departure.
Flown GRR to LGA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Grand Rapids to New York is 617 miles (992 km), a flight of about 1 hour 45 minutes.
Great Lakes region farmland, Lake Erie shoreline glimpsed to the north, Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania and upstate New York
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from GRR
RIGHTDeparting GRR eastbound, the right side offers views over Grand Rapids' urban grid and the Grand River before the route continues over Michigan farmland toward Lake Michigan's inland lakes region. It's a modest but slightly more varied outlook than the flatter left side.
Landing at LGA
LEFTOn approach to LGA from the west, the left side gives passengers a dramatic view of the Manhattan skyline, the Hudson River, and the East River as the aircraft banks over the city before lining up for landing. This is one of the most iconic urban approaches in North America.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gerald R Ford International (GRR) to La Guardia (LGA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Grand Rapids to New York. While takeoff from GRR is fairly flat and unremarkable on both sides, the left side wins overall thanks to the spectacular Manhattan skyline view during the LGA approach, which outweighs the modest scenery differences during departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Gerald R Ford International in Grand Rapids?
During takeoff from Gerald R Ford International (GRR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing GRR eastbound, the right side offers views over Grand Rapids' urban grid and the Grand River before the route continues over Michigan farmland toward Lake Michigan's inland lakes region. It's a modest but slightly more varied outlook than the flatter left side. Notable sights include: Grand River, Grand Rapids downtown, scattered inland lakes.
What can I see when landing at La Guardia in New York?
When landing at La Guardia (LGA), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach to LGA from the west, the left side gives passengers a dramatic view of the Manhattan skyline, the Hudson River, and the East River as the aircraft banks over the city before lining up for landing. This is one of the most iconic urban approaches in North America. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline, Hudson River, Central Park, East River.
How long is the flight from Grand Rapids to New York?
The flight from Gerald R Ford International (GRR) to La Guardia (LGA) takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 617 miles (992 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Grand Rapids to New York flight path pass over?
Great Lakes region farmland, Lake Erie shoreline glimpsed to the north, Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania and upstate New York