Loading map...

BWI destination photo
MSY destination photo

BWIMSY

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the Appalachian mountain range during the cruise and provides the iconic descent over Lake Pontchartrain and the world's longest bridge upon arrival.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Blue Ridge Mountains

Early in the flight, enjoy the rolling, hazy peaks of the Blue Ridge chain stretching across Virginia and North Carolina.

🌲

Appalachian Ridge-and-Valley

Marvel at the distinct parallel geological folds of the Appalachian mountains as the plane traverses the heart of the range.

💧

Lake Pontchartrain

The flight usually descends directly over this massive 630-square-mile brackish lake, offering a sea-like view right before landing.

🛣️

The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway

Get a clear view of the world's longest continuous bridge over water, looking like a thin needle stretching to the horizon.

🏟️

New Orleans Skyline

On final approach to MSY, look for the Superdome and the skyscrapers of the Central Business District appearing above the wetlands.

Choose the right side for the best mountain views early on and the most dramatic 'water landing' sensation over Lake Pontchartrain. On morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing crisp, clear colors for photography of the mountains and the Louisiana wetlands.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🏛️

Washington D.C. Panorama

Shortly after takeoff from BWI, catch a glimpse of the National Mall and the Potomac River if the flight path tracks slightly south.

🏙️

Charlotte Urban Center

Look for the dense skyline of Uptown Charlotte as you cross into North Carolina, a major regional hub visible from high altitude.

🌊

Gulf Coast Horizon

As the flight nears the destination, the glistening waters of the Gulf of Mexico can be seen on the distant left horizon.

🐍

Mississippi River Meanders

Watch the dramatic, winding curves of the lower Mississippi River as it snakes toward the Gulf during the final descent.

🐊

Atchafalaya Basin Margins

Observe the intricate network of bayous and wetlands that define the unique geography of southern Louisiana.

Sit on the left for softer lighting during late afternoon flights, avoiding the direct glare of the sun. This side is also better for spotting the expansive Mississippi Delta and the dense forest canopies of the Southeast during mid-flight.

Top Activities in New Orleans
Route Information

Distance: 1,606 km (998 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 8 min

Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)

Arrival: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)

Route Type: Domestic

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