JFK to LAX Route Guide
New York, United States → Los Angeles, United States
Quick answer
KJFK (New York, United States) to KLAX (Los Angeles, United States) is a 2,146 NM (3,974 km / 2,470 mi) great-circle route with an initial bearing of 274° (W). Typical cruise altitude FL350, expected flight time 5h 11m, common aircraft: Boeing 737-800, Airbus A320neo, Airbus A321neo.
Distance
2,146 NM
3,974 km / 2,470 mi
Initial Bearing
274° (W)
True heading at departure
Typical Cruise
FL350
35,000 ft
Block Time
5h 11m
Typical jet, no wind correction
Fuel Estimate
7,938 kg
Single-aisle equivalent + reserve
Departure Elevation
13 ft
KJFK
Arrival Elevation
128 ft
KLAX
What aircraft fly this route?
For a 2,146 NM mission, operators typically deploy:
- Boeing 737-800
- Airbus A320neo
- Airbus A321neo
- Boeing 737 MAX 8
Weather considerations
Pilots flying JFK-LAX should brief METARs and TAFs at both ends, plus any en-route SIGMETs. On this long-range mission, plan for an alternate within fuel reserves and review oceanic / NAT track procedures if applicable.
Frequently asked questions
What is the distance between JFK and LAX?
2,146 nautical miles (3,974 km / 2,470 statute miles) great-circle.
How long is the flight from New York to Los Angeles?
Approximately 5h 11m block-to-block for a typical commercial jet, depending on aircraft type and winds.
What aircraft typically fly JFK-LAX?
Common types include Boeing 737-800, Airbus A320neo, Airbus A321neo, Boeing 737 MAX 8 depending on operator and demand.
What altitude do flights cruise at?
Most flights at this distance cruise around FL350 (35,000 ft), though winds and traffic affect filed altitude.
What initial heading is the route?
274° true (W). Track varies along the route due to great-circle curvature.
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