About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Honolulu International (HNL) to John F Kennedy International (JFK)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Honolulu to New York. The right side wins overall because the Diamond Head and Koolau Range departure view from Oahu is one of the most visually spectacular airport departures in the world. The JFK landing views are good on the left but neither side offers much during the long overwater crossing. The departure experience on the right is simply more memorable and unique.
What can I see during takeoff from Honolulu International in Honolulu?
During takeoff from Honolulu International (HNL), sit on the Right side for the best views. HNL typically departs westbound on runway 08R/26L or eastbound on 08L/26R. For the most common eastbound departure toward the mainland, the right side gives you Diamond Head crater and the Koolau Range as you climb out over the south shore of Oahu. The left side faces north toward Pearl Harbor and the Waianae Range, which is also interesting but less iconic. Notable sights include: Diamond Head crater, Koolau Range, Waikiki Beach strip, Maunalua Bay.
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 are typically from the east or northeast, landing westbound on runways 13L/R or 22L/R. On the common approach over Jamaica Bay from the east, the left side gives you the Manhattan skyline in the distance, the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, and the full sweep of Jamaica Bay. The right side faces south toward the Atlantic and Long Island's south shore, which is far less dramatic. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline, Jamaica Bay, Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, Long Island south shore barrier beaches.
How long is the flight from Honolulu to New York?
The flight from Honolulu International (HNL) to John F Kennedy International (JFK) takes Approximately 9 to 10 hours.
What does the Honolulu to New York flight path pass over?
The route tracks northeast across the open Pacific for roughly the first 2,400 miles with no land visible. The flight then passes south of the Aleutian Islands arc, crosses the Pacific Coast near Northern California or Oregon, transits the Sierra Nevada and Rocky Mountain ranges, crosses the Great Plains states, and descends over the Appalachians toward the New York metro area. The Sierra Nevada and Rockies are the most visually dramatic overland features, visible from both sides depending on exact routing.