About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to John F Kennedy International (JFK)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to New York. While the right side wins at takeoff for the Superstition Mountains and South Mountain, the left side captures the full New Mexico high desert, Texas Panhandle plains, and then the spectacular Manhattan and Jamaica Bay approach sequence into JFK. The landing view on the left is genuinely one of the best urban approach views in the world and tips the balance.
What can I see during takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
During takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Right side for the best views. PHX typically departs east on runway 26R/8L or northeast on 25R. Departing eastbound, the right side gives you a clear look at South Mountain Park and the Superstition Mountains rising abruptly from the desert floor. The Salt River valley and Tempe Town Lake are also visible before the aircraft climbs out over the desert. Notable sights include: South Mountain Park, Superstition Mountains, Tempe Town Lake, Salt River bed.
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. JFK approaches typically come in from the west or southwest over Jamaica Bay on runway 22L/31L, or from the east on 13L. On the common westerly approach, the left side gives you Manhattan's skyline, the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, and the full sweep of New York Harbor before crossing Jamaica Bay on final. This is one of the most dramatic urban approach views in aviation. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline, Jamaica Bay, Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, Brooklyn waterfront.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to New York?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to John F Kennedy International (JFK) takes Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours.
What does the Phoenix to New York flight path pass over?
The route tracks northeast over the White Mountains of eastern Arizona, then across the high desert of New Mexico including the Rio Grande valley near Albuquerque visible as a green corridor. Over the Texas Panhandle the terrain flattens dramatically into the Great Plains. The route then crosses Oklahoma and Missouri, the Mississippi River valley near St. Louis, and the Appalachian ridges of Pennsylvania before descending into the New York metro area.