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AUS → MSY
Which side of the plane to sit from Austin Bergstrom International Airport (Austin) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (New Orleans)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer unique views of the Gulf Coast region, the right side provides a superior vantage point for the dramatic winding oxbows of the Mississippi River and the iconic New Orleans skyline upon arrival.
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Mississippi River Meanders
Spectacular views of the 'Big Muddy' as it twists in sharp loops and oxbows near the Louisiana border.
Atchafalaya Basin
The largest wetland and swamp in the United States, visible as a complex network of bayous and cypress groves.
New Orleans CBD
A direct view of the Caesars Superdome and the skyscrapers of the Central Business District during the final approach.
Industrial River Road
The fascinating logistics of the lower Mississippi, featuring massive ships, grain elevators, and refineries.
The right side is unbeatable for evening flights, as the sunset reflects off the winding Mississippi River. Watch for the 'Crescent City' curve of the river just before landing to see why the city earned its nickname.
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Austin Skyline
A clear view of the growing downtown Austin skyscraper cluster shortly after takeoff if the plane departs towards the North.
East Texas Piney Woods
The transition from the scrubby Texas Hill Country to the dense, lush pine forests of the East Texas borderlands.
Lake Pontchartrain
A massive view of the 630-square-mile brackish estuary and the world-record Causeway bridge during the descent.
Toledo Bend Reservoir
The vast blue expanse of the reservoir marking the border between Texas and Louisiana.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. This side is also best for seeing the sheer scale of Lake Pontchartrain as you approach MSY from the west or north.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 713 km (443 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 11 min
Departure: AUS (30.194499969482425, -97.6698989868164)
Arrival: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)
Route Type: Domestic
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