Though the Sicilian departure view is scenic, the long transatlantic cruise dominates both sides with open ocean. The left side ultimately wins thanks to the dramatic Manhattan skyline and Long Island coastline visible during the JFK approach.
Flown MLA to JFK? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Malta to New York is 4,589 miles (7,386 km), a flight of about 10 hours 45 minutes.
Mid-Atlantic open ocean with no visible landmarks; route passes north of the Azores and south of Newfoundland before descending toward the U.S. East Coast.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MLA
RIGHTDeparting MLA on runway 31, the climb-out curves northwest, putting Sicily and its coastline on the right side of the aircraft. Passengers can catch Mount Etna's silhouette and the Sicilian coast before the route heads out over open water.
Landing at JFK
LEFTArrivals into JFK from the east typically approach runway 22L/22R, banking southwest over Long Island before landing. This puts the Manhattan skyline and the Atlantic-facing barrier islands on the left side of the cabin during final descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Luqa (MLA) to John F Kennedy International (JFK)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Malta to New York. Though the Sicilian departure view is scenic, the long transatlantic cruise dominates both sides with open ocean. The left side ultimately wins thanks to the dramatic Manhattan skyline and Long Island coastline visible during the JFK approach.
What can I see during takeoff from Luqa in Malta?
During takeoff from Luqa (MLA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing MLA on runway 31, the climb-out curves northwest, putting Sicily and its coastline on the right side of the aircraft. Passengers can catch Mount Etna's silhouette and the Sicilian coast before the route heads out over open water. Notable sights include: Malta's coastline, Sicily, Mount Etna, Strait of Messina.
What can I see when landing at John F Kennedy International in New York?
When landing at John F Kennedy International (JFK), sit on the Left side for the best views. Arrivals into JFK from the east typically approach runway 22L/22R, banking southwest over Long Island before landing. This puts the Manhattan skyline and the Atlantic-facing barrier islands on the left side of the cabin during final descent. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline, Rockaway Peninsula, Jamaica Bay, Long Island Sound.
How long is the flight from Malta to New York?
The flight from Luqa (MLA) to John F Kennedy International (JFK) takes about 10 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,589 miles (7,386 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Malta to New York flight path pass over?
Mid-Atlantic open ocean with no visible landmarks; route passes north of the Azores and south of Newfoundland before descending toward the U.S. East Coast.