From city skylines to natural marvels, here’s how to score the best seat in the sky—before takeoff. For frequent flyers and wanderlust-fuelled explorers alike, the right window seat can turn a routine flight into a breathtaking travel moment. Knowing which side of the plane to sit on can offer you a front-row seat to iconic sights—from the shimmering skyline of Manhattan to the snow-capped summit of Mount Fuji. This guide helps you choose your side with confidence, so you’ll never miss a majestic view again.
Toronto to New York City (JFK or LGA)
Best side: Left (Port)
Why: As you approach NYC from the north, a seat on the left often offers views of the Manhattan skyline, especially if landing at LaGuardia.
Pro tip: Choose a window seat in front of the wing for unobstructed cityscape shots.
Tokyo to Osaka (Haneda to Kansai)
Best side: Right (Starboard)
Why: If the weather is clear, Mount Fuji makes a majestic appearance on the right-hand side shortly after takeoff from Haneda.
Pro tip: Morning flights tend to offer better visibility of Mount Fuji’s iconic silhouette.
Los Angeles to New York City
Best side: Left (Port)
Why: On a clear day, this coast-to-coast journey can reveal the Grand Canyon and even glimpses of the Chicago skyline.
Pro tip: Early afternoon flights often provide ideal lighting over the Grand Canyon.
Las Vegas to San Francisco
Best side: Right (Starboard)
Why: You’ll often catch aerial views of the Sierra Nevada range and even Yosemite Valley if the skies are clear.
Pro tip: Book a morning flight for dramatic shadows on mountain terrain.
London to Toronto
Best side: Right (Starboard)
Why: Flying over Greenland or Iceland, the views of icy fjords and rugged terrain are best captured from the right-hand side.
Pro tip: Take an afternoon flight in summer when there’s still daylight over the North Atlantic.
Cairo to Luxor
Best side: Left (Port)
Why: Nile River vistas and desert landscapes unfold beautifully along the left side during southbound flights.
Pro tip: Flights in the late afternoon offer golden-hour lighting over the river.
Sydney to Queenstown, New Zealand
Best side: Left (Port)
Why: The dramatic Southern Alps welcome you into New Zealand, and you might even spot the winding fjords of Milford Sound.
Pro tip: Try to book a window seat ahead of the wing for wide views.
Cape Town to Johannesburg
Best side: Right (Starboard)
Why: Leaving Cape Town, the right side gives you one last look at Table Mountain and the surrounding bay.
Pro tip: Choose a morning departure for clear skies over the Cape.
Flight-Booking Tips for Scenic Seekers
- Use tools like SeatGuru or Seat Link to preview window views and avoid wing-blocked seats.
- Book early to snag a window on your preferred side—especially in popular sightseeing routes.
- Ask the crew—pilots sometimes announce which side has the better views during boarding or descent.
- Avoid over-the-wing rows if you’re planning to snap photos.
- Morning and late-afternoon flights often offer the clearest skies and best shadows for depth and contrast.
Responsible Travel Note
Always enjoy aerial views with a light footprint in mind. Choose direct flights when possible to reduce emissions, and offset your carbon footprint using verified programs. Travel is a privilege—and we honour the land even from above.
Every journey leaves a mark, and small choices can make a big difference. Choosing eco-friendly stays, supporting local communities, and being mindful of plastic use help preserve the beauty of the places we visit. Respecting wildlife, conserving resources, and travelling sustainably ensure future generations can experience the same wonders. By treading lightly and embracing responsible travel, we create meaningful connections and lasting memories. Here’s to adventures that inspire and footprints that honour our planet. Safe and mindful travels!
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