While takeoff offers interesting regional views, the landing approach into Algiers provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery—the Mediterranean coastline, the Tell Atlas Mountains, and the city's striking harbor geography make the left side the better choice for the overall journey.
Flown JFK to ALG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
New York to Algier is 4,025 miles (6,478 km), a flight of about 10 hours.
The flight crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 6 hours with no significant landmarks visible—open water throughout. As you approach European airspace, you may see the Iberian Peninsula (Spain/Portugal) off the left wing, then the southern coast of Spain near the Strait of Gibraltar. The flight then crosses the western Mediterranean, with North African coastlines becoming visible in the final 2-3 hours of descent. The Rif Mountains in northern Morocco and the Kabylie Mountains in Algeria appear as you approach the Algerian coast.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from JFK
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Long Island Sound and the Connecticut coastline during the northeasterly climb-out from JFK. You'll see the complex waterways and barrier islands that define the New York metropolitan area's eastern edge.
Landing at ALG
LEFTLeft-side seats provide the best views during the descent into Algiers. You'll see the Atlas Mountains rising inland from the Mediterranean coast, and the city's distinctive position on the Algerian coastline with the bay and harbor clearly visible.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from John F Kennedy International (JFK) to Houari Boumediene (ALG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from New York to Algier. While takeoff offers interesting regional views, the landing approach into Algiers provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery—the Mediterranean coastline, the Tell Atlas Mountains, and the city's striking harbor geography make the left side the better choice for the overall journey.
What can I see during takeoff from John F Kennedy International in New York?
During takeoff from John F Kennedy International (JFK), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Long Island Sound and the Connecticut coastline during the northeasterly climb-out from JFK. You'll see the complex waterways and barrier islands that define the New York metropolitan area's eastern edge. Notable sights include: Long Island Sound, Connecticut coastline, Jamaica Bay (to the left but visible), Atlantic barrier islands.
What can I see when landing at Houari Boumediene in Algier?
When landing at Houari Boumediene (ALG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide the best views during the descent into Algiers. You'll see the Atlas Mountains rising inland from the Mediterranean coast, and the city's distinctive position on the Algerian coastline with the bay and harbor clearly visible. Notable sights include: Mediterranean Sea, Atlas Mountains (Tell Atlas range), Algiers harbor and bay, North African coastal plains.
How long is the flight from New York to Algier?
The flight from John F Kennedy International (JFK) to Houari Boumediene (ALG) takes about 10 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 4,025 miles (6,478 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the New York to Algier flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 6 hours with no significant landmarks visible—open water throughout. As you approach European airspace, you may see the Iberian Peninsula (Spain/Portugal) off the left wing, then the southern coast of Spain near the Strait of Gibraltar. The flight then crosses the western Mediterranean, with North African coastlines becoming visible in the final 2-3 hours of descent. The Rif Mountains in northern Morocco and the Kabylie Mountains in Algeria appear as you approach the Algerian coast.