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IAH → MCO
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Orlando International Airport (Orlando)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior coastal perspective, featuring the massive Mississippi River Delta, the Emerald Coast beaches, and the Orlando theme park complexes upon arrival.
Port of Houston
One of the world's largest ports and industrial hubs visible shortly after takeoff.
Mississippi Delta
The iconic 'bird's foot' delta where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico.
Emerald Coast
The stunning white-sand beaches and turquoise waters of Destin and Panama City Beach.
Disney World
During specific approach paths, the sprawling Walt Disney World Resort is visible to the south.
Cape Canaveral
On clear days with a southern approach, the distant launch pads of the Space Coast may be visible.
The right side is the scenic winner for this route. For the best lighting on the Mississippi Delta and the Florida coastline, choose a morning flight. Keep your window shade open during the last 20 minutes of the flight to spot the theme parks and the vast lake systems of Central Florida.
Sam Houston Forest
Expansive views of the dense pine forests of East Texas shortly after departure.
Lake Houston
A large reservoir visible to the northeast of Houston during the initial climb.
Atchafalaya Basin
The largest wetland and swamp in the United States, visible across southern Louisiana.
Ocala National Forest
Lush green landscapes of Central Florida appearing on the northern side during the descent into Orlando.
Sit on the left if you are flying during mid-day to avoid the direct southern sun. This side is better for spotting the winding inland bayous and the rural landscapes of the Deep South. On approach to MCO, you may see the northern lakes of the Orlando chain.
Distance: 1,372 km (853 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 50 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)
Route Type: Domestic
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