About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Pico (PIX) to John F Kennedy International (JFK)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Pico to New York. The right seat wins overall because the Azores departure view of Pico volcano and the inter-island channel is genuinely spectacular and unique — one of the most dramatic island departure scenes in the Atlantic. The JFK approach on the left is good but more routine. Right seat captures the best moment of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Pico in Pico?
During takeoff from Pico (PIX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Pico Airport's runway runs roughly east-west (runway 09/27). Departing westbound toward JFK, the right side faces north, giving you a close view of Pico volcano's massive summit and the channel between Pico and Faial islands. The left side looks south over open Atlantic with little of interest. Notable sights include: Mount Pico (2,351m summit), Faial Island across the channel, Horta harbor on Faial, São Jorge Island to the northeast.
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's primary arrival runways from the east are 13L/13R, meaning aircraft approach from the northeast tracking southwest. The left side faces southeast, giving views over Jamaica Bay, the Rockaway Peninsula, and the Manhattan skyline in the distance to the northwest. The right side looks inland over suburban Queens with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Jamaica Bay and its wildlife refuge, Rockaway Peninsula barrier beach, Manhattan skyline on the distant horizon, Coney Island and Brighton Beach shoreline.
How long is the flight from Pico to New York?
The flight from Pico (PIX) to John F Kennedy International (JFK) takes Approximately 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes westbound.
What does the Pico to New York flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northwest across the open North Atlantic, passing roughly south of the Grand Banks of Newfoundland. Mid-flight you may see occasional icebergs or shipping traffic near the Grand Banks if visibility allows. As you approach the US East Coast, Nova Scotia and the Gulf of Maine coastline may be visible to the north on clear days. The flight crosses the Gulf Stream, sometimes visible as a color change in the ocean surface.