JFK (New York) window seat guide

At John F Kennedy International in New York: for takeoff, sit on the Left side; for landing, sit on the Right side. Notable views include: Manhattan skyline (Empire State Building, One World Trade Center), Brooklyn waterfront, Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, Jamaica Bay/Rockaway Peninsula receding behind.

When taking off from John F Kennedy International (JFK), sit on the Left side for the best views. On departure from runway 31L, the aircraft climbs out to the northwest over Jamaica Bay before typically continuing on a heading that keeps Manhattan and Brooklyn in view on the left side. Passengers get a strong look at the New York City skyline and the harbor area shortly after liftoff, which is the signature view from JFK departures. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline (Empire State Building, One World Trade Center), Brooklyn waterfront, Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, Jamaica Bay/Rockaway Peninsula receding behind.

When landing at John F Kennedy International (JFK), sit on the Right side for the best views. On the typical northeast approach into 22L, the aircraft banks over Long Island and then Jamaica Bay before turning final to the southwest. Right-side passengers get a clear view of the Manhattan skyline and the East River off to the northwest during the descent, while the left side mostly faces open water and the Rockaways. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline, Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, Jamaica Bay, Rockaway Peninsula.

The best window seat at John F Kennedy International (JFK) depends on several factors: the typical runway used for your departure or arrival, the geographic features around New York (mountains, coastlines, city skylines), weather conditions, and time of day. Morning and evening flights often offer the best lighting for scenic views.