About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Tokyo International (HND) to John F Kennedy International (JFK)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Tokyo to New York. Left side wins at both ends of this transpacific route. The Tokyo departure offers Mount Fuji and Tokyo Bay, while the JFK approach delivers Jamaica Bay and a distant Manhattan skyline. The transoceanic middle portion over the North Pacific offers little regardless of side, so the departure and arrival views are the deciding factor.
What can I see during takeoff from Tokyo International in Tokyo?
During takeoff from Tokyo International (HND), sit on the Left side for the best views. HND departures heading northeast or east typically use runways 34L/34R or 05, and a left-side seat gives you a clear view south and west over Tokyo Bay, with the city sprawl of central Tokyo visible before the aircraft turns toward the Pacific. Mount Fuji appears to the southwest on the left side during the initial climb and turn. Notable sights include: Tokyo Bay, Mount Fuji (southwest, ~100km), central Tokyo urban grid, Yokohama port area.
What can I see when landing at John F Kennedy International in New York?
When landing at John F Kennedy International (JFK), sit on the Left side for the best views. JFK approaches from the east or southeast over the Atlantic, typically using runways 13L/13R or 22L/22R. A left-side seat on approach from the east gives you a view north over Long Island's south shore barrier beaches, Jamaica Bay, and the Manhattan skyline visible in the far distance to the northwest. Right side faces south over open Atlantic. Notable sights include: Jamaica Bay, Long Island barrier beaches (Jones Beach area), Manhattan skyline (distant northwest), Rockaway Peninsula.
How long is the flight from Tokyo to New York?
The flight from Tokyo International (HND) to John F Kennedy International (JFK) takes Approximately 13 to 14 hours eastbound.
What does the Tokyo to New York flight path pass over?
The great circle route arcs northeast over the North Pacific, passing south of the Aleutian Islands chain (Alaska), then tracking southeast over the Gulf of Alaska and the Canadian Pacific coast near British Columbia. The route crosses over or near the Rocky Mountains of western Canada before descending toward the northeastern US. Cloud cover and darkness make much of the oceanic portion visually limited, but the Canadian Rockies and Great Lakes region may be visible on clear days near the end of the flight.