While takeoff favors the left for Manhattan views, the landing approach to YTZ from the south provides superior scenery from the right side with Lake Ontario, the Toronto Islands, and the downtown waterfront. Since landing views are typically more memorable and the flight path spends more time in the approach phase, right seats offer the better overall experience.
Flown LGA to YTZ? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
New York to Toronto is 344 miles (554 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the northern edge of New Jersey, then follows a northwest trajectory over Pennsylvania (Appalachian foothills visible as low ridges), crosses into New York state, and passes over the Finger Lakes region before reaching Lake Ontario. The Appalachian plateau creates subtle elevation changes visible as terrain texture from cruising altitude. Lake Ontario dominates the final 30 minutes of flight, with the Canadian shoreline becoming increasingly detailed as you descend toward Toronto.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LGA
LEFTLGA typically departs eastbound on Runway 4R/4L or northbound on Runway 13/31. Left seats offer views of Manhattan's skyline and the East River during initial climb. You'll see the Hudson River and New Jersey receding to the right, but the left side captures the iconic Manhattan grid and bridges.
Landing at YTZ
RIGHTApproaching YTZ from the south typically uses Runway 09 (eastbound) or Runway 27 (westbound). Right seats provide views of Lake Ontario and Toronto's waterfront during descent. The Toronto Islands and downtown skyline are best seen from the right side as you approach the runway.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from La Guardia (LGA) to City Centre (YTZ)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from New York to Toronto. While takeoff favors the left for Manhattan views, the landing approach to YTZ from the south provides superior scenery from the right side with Lake Ontario, the Toronto Islands, and the downtown waterfront. Since landing views are typically more memorable and the flight path spends more time in the approach phase, right seats offer the better overall experience.
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. LGA typically departs eastbound on Runway 4R/4L or northbound on Runway 13/31. Left seats offer views of Manhattan's skyline and the East River during initial climb. You'll see the Hudson River and New Jersey receding to the right, but the left side captures the iconic Manhattan grid and bridges. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline (Empire State Building, Chrysler Building visible in the distance), East River, Queensboro Bridge, Roosevelt Island.
What can I see when landing at City Centre in Toronto?
When landing at City Centre (YTZ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Approaching YTZ from the south typically uses Runway 09 (eastbound) or Runway 27 (westbound). Right seats provide views of Lake Ontario and Toronto's waterfront during descent. The Toronto Islands and downtown skyline are best seen from the right side as you approach the runway. Notable sights include: Lake Ontario, Toronto Islands (Centre Island, Ward's Island), Toronto downtown skyline, Scarborough Bluffs (eastern shoreline).
How long is the flight from New York to Toronto?
The flight from La Guardia (LGA) to City Centre (YTZ) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 344 miles (554 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the New York to Toronto flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the northern edge of New Jersey, then follows a northwest trajectory over Pennsylvania (Appalachian foothills visible as low ridges), crosses into New York state, and passes over the Finger Lakes region before reaching Lake Ontario. The Appalachian plateau creates subtle elevation changes visible as terrain texture from cruising altitude. Lake Ontario dominates the final 30 minutes of flight, with the Canadian shoreline becoming increasingly detailed as you descend toward Toronto.