If you want the classic Manhattan view, fly via LGA or EWR, JFK rarely has it. Sometimes west coast flights wind up being diverted south, over NJ, and occasionally route to JFK over the statue of liberty, so it is possible to get a great view via JFK but this happens <1% of the time. This time of the year you are more likely to see only haze and clouds, and no hint of Manhattan or anything interesting. Of course there is a sure way to guarantee a fine view from JFK: fly NY Helicopters (from T9 to/from Manhattan).