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HOU destination photo
MSY destination photo

HOUMSY

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior perspective of the Gulf of Mexico coastline, the intricate winding patterns of the Mississippi River, and the massive industrial hubs along the shore.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏖️

Galveston Bay

Expansive views of the Texas coastline and the busy ship channels leading into the Gulf of Mexico.

🏗️

Offshore Oil Rigs

On clear days, numerous oil platforms can be spotted dotting the horizon in the Gulf.

🐍

Mississippi River Meanders

Stunning views of the river's dramatic oxbow bends and silt-rich water as it nears the delta.

🚢

Port of New Orleans

Heavy industrial activity, massive cargo ships, and the Huey P. Long Bridge during the final approach.

🏟️

New Orleans Skyline

A panoramic view of the Superdome, the CBD, and the French Quarter just before landing.

Choose the right side for morning flights to have the sun at your back. This side is significantly better for viewing the geographic 'mouth' of the Mississippi and the industrial powerhouses of the Gulf Coast. If the flight lands towards the east, you will get a spectacular view of the New Orleans skyline and the Mississippi River's 'crescent' shape.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Houston Skyline

Clear views of Downtown Houston and the Texas Medical Center shortly after departure from HOU.

🌲

Atchafalaya Basin

The largest wetland and swamp in the United States, displaying vibrant green shades of cypress and tupelo trees.

🌊

Lake Pontchartrain

A massive 630-square-mile estuary that bounds New Orleans to the north.

🛣️

The Causeway

The world's longest continuous bridge over water, visible as a thin line cutting through Lake Pontchartrain.

Sit on the left for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. During the descent into MSY, the left side provides the best view of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway and the Northshore suburbs. Look for the San Jacinto Monument shortly after takeoff from HOU.

Top Activities in New Orleans
Route Information

Distance: 486 km (302 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 49 min

Departure: HOU (29.64539909, -95.27890015)

Arrival: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)

Route Type: Domestic

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