Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from New York to Fairbanks. Left side scores higher due to the dramatic NYC departure with iconic urban landmarks and immediate transition into Appalachian terrain, combined with the entire cruise phase over the Great Lakes, Canadian Shield, and boreal forests of increasing visual interest. Right side's landing approach over the Tanana River is scenic but cannot overcome the monotonous cruise phase over central Canada and the Arctic, which lacks the terrain variety and landmark density of the left-side route.

During takeoff from John F Kennedy International (JFK), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the NYC metropolitan area during departure, including Manhattan's skyline, the Hudson River, and the East River. The Appalachian foothills become visible as the aircraft climbs westward, providing immediate terrain drama absent on the right side. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline and Hudson River, East River and Queens neighborhoods, Appalachian ridge lines to the northwest.

When landing at Fairbanks International (FAI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers the approach into Fairbanks over the Tanana River valley and the Alaska Range foothills. The terrain transitions from boreal forest to tundra, and the Tanana River is a distinctive landmark during descent. Left side would show similar terrain but lacks the river's visual prominence on approach. Notable sights include: Tanana River valley, Alaska Range foothills to the south, boreal forest and tundra transition zone, Fairbanks city lights and runway approach.

The flight from John F Kennedy International (JFK) to Fairbanks International (FAI) takes 5h 45m.

Great Lakes (Superior, Michigan, Huron visible on left side during cruise), Canadian Shield with lakes and boreal forest, Hudson Bay region, Mackenzie River valley, Yukon Territory mountains and river systems, transition from temperate forest to Arctic tundra