Right side scores higher due to superior landing approach scenery over the Atlantic coastline and Moroccan geography. While left side offers excellent NYC departure views, the transatlantic cruise phase (5+ hours of open ocean) limits both sides equally. The right-side approach to CMN with coastal and valley features provides more visual interest than the left side's extended ocean crossing, making the overall flight experience more scenic on the right.
Flight Path
Transatlantic crossing over the North Atlantic with no visible landmarks for approximately 5 hours. Azores archipelago may be visible far to the south depending on exact flight path (typically not directly overflown). European coast (Portugal/Spain) appears on the eastern horizon during final 90 minutes of cruise. Strait of Gibraltar becomes visible approximately 45 minutes before descent to CMN, with the Spanish coast to the north and Moroccan coast to the south. The Mediterranean entrance and North African coastline provide the only significant geographic features during the latter portion of the flight.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LGA
LEFTLeft side captures the Manhattan skyline and East River during initial climb-out from LGA runway 22 (northeast heading). The urban density and harbor geometry provide immediate visual interest before the aircraft turns eastward over water.
Landing at CMN
RIGHTRight side offers superior views during the approach to CMN. The Atlantic coastline south of Casablanca becomes visible during descent, with the Draa River valley and coastal plains providing geographic context. The approach typically descends over the Atlantic before turning inland, giving right-side passengers extended ocean and coastal views.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
Will your flight be in sunlight?
See exactly which side of the plane gets sun and shade at your departure time.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from La Guardia (LGA) to Mohammed V (CMN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from New York to Casablanca. Right side scores higher due to superior landing approach scenery over the Atlantic coastline and Moroccan geography. While left side offers excellent NYC departure views, the transatlantic cruise phase (5+ hours of open ocean) limits both sides equally. The right-side approach to CMN with coastal and valley features provides more visual interest than the left side's extended ocean crossing, making the overall flight experience more scenic on the right.
What can I see during takeoff from La Guardia in New York?
During takeoff from La Guardia (LGA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Manhattan skyline and East River during initial climb-out from LGA runway 22 (northeast heading). The urban density and harbor geometry provide immediate visual interest before the aircraft turns eastward over water. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline with Empire State Building and One World Trade Center, East River and FDR Drive, Queens residential neighborhoods, Flushing Bay.
What can I see when landing at Mohammed V in Casablanca?
When landing at Mohammed V (CMN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers superior views during the approach to CMN. The Atlantic coastline south of Casablanca becomes visible during descent, with the Draa River valley and coastal plains providing geographic context. The approach typically descends over the Atlantic before turning inland, giving right-side passengers extended ocean and coastal views. Notable sights include: Atlantic coastline and Casablanca harbor, Draa River valley, Moroccan coastal plains, Anti-Atlas Mountains on the distant southern horizon.
How long is the flight from New York to Casablanca?
The flight from La Guardia (LGA) to Mohammed V (CMN) takes 7h 15m.
What does the New York to Casablanca flight path pass over?
Transatlantic crossing over the North Atlantic with no visible landmarks for approximately 5 hours. Azores archipelago may be visible far to the south depending on exact flight path (typically not directly overflown). European coast (Portugal/Spain) appears on the eastern horizon during final 90 minutes of cruise. Strait of Gibraltar becomes visible approximately 45 minutes before descent to CMN, with the Spanish coast to the north and Moroccan coast to the south. The Mediterranean entrance and North African coastline provide the only significant geographic features during the latter portion of the flight.