Loading map...

BWI destination photo
HOU destination photo

BWIHOU

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the Appalachian ridge-and-valley formations, the winding Mississippi River, and typically provides a better angle for the Houston skyline during the descent into Hobby Airport.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏛️

Potomac River Valley

On clear days, see the winding Potomac and distant views of the Washington D.C. landmarks.

⛰️

Shenandoah Valley

Spectacular views of the linear ridges and lush valleys of the Appalachian Mountains.

🌊

Mississippi River

Cross the continent's most famous waterway, often appearing as a massive silver snake through the landscape.

🏙️

Houston Skyline

A prime view of the downtown skyscrapers including the JP Morgan Chase Tower as you approach HOU.

🏟️

NRG Stadium

Spot the massive stadium complex and the Astrodome during the final descent phase.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to capture the sun illuminating the Appalachian ridges. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the best shots of the Houston downtown area. In autumn, the mountain colors are particularly striking from this side.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Chesapeake Bay

Vibrant views of the massive estuary and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge shortly after departure.

🏔️

Great Smoky Mountains

Panoramic views of the misty, blue-toned peaks along the Tennessee and North Carolina border.

🏖️

Gulf Coast Bend

As the plane nears Texas, catch glimpses of the emerald waters and white sands of the Gulf of Mexico.

⚓

Galveston Bay

Observe the heavy shipping traffic and sprawling oil refineries characteristic of the Texas coast.

🌿

Atchafalaya Basin

The largest wetland and swamp in the United States, visible as a vast green network of waterways.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. This side is excellent for spotting the coastal transitions and the vast wetlands of Louisiana before crossing into Texas. Watch for the Bay Bridge within the first 10 minutes of flight.

Top Activities in Houston
Route Information

Distance: 2,003 km (1,245 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 40 min

Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)

Arrival: HOU (29.64539909, -95.27890015)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.