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LFT → IAH
Which side of the plane to sit from Lafayette Regional Airport (Lafayette) to George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Gulf Coast transition, including the intricate bayous of Louisiana, the industrial complexes of Lake Charles and Beaumont, and the expansive Sabine Lake on the Texas border.
Vermilion River & Wetlands
Immediately after takeoff, view the winding Vermilion River and the dense wetlands surrounding Lafayette.
Lake Charles Industrial Hub
Observe the massive refinery complexes and shipping infrastructure clustered around the Calcasieu River.
Sabine Lake
A large saltwater estuary forming the natural border between Louisiana and Texas, often dotted with fishing boats.
Port Arthur Ship Channel
See the heavy maritime traffic and large tankers navigating the channels connecting to the Gulf of Mexico.
Houston Skyline
On clear days during the descent into IAH, the downtown Houston skyline is often visible to the south.
Sit on the left for the best views of the coastline and the industrial architecture of the energy corridor. Morning flights are ideal to have the sun behind you, illuminating the refineries and waterways. During the descent, look for the distinct 'shelf' where the marshlands meet the piney woods of East Texas.
Acadiana Prairies
A patchwork of rice fields and crawfish ponds that define the agricultural landscape of Southwest Louisiana.
Big Thicket National Preserve
Dense, lush pine and hardwood forests that dominate the landscape as you cross into East Texas.
Liberty & Dayton
Quaint Texas towns nestled among the forests, providing a clear view of rural Southeast Texas life.
Lake Houston
A significant reservoir on the San Jacinto River, signaling the final approach into the airport.
IAH Northern Approach
Clear views of the massive runways and terminal infrastructure of George Bush Intercontinental from the north.
The right side is perfect for travelers who prefer inland scenery, such as the vast pine forests of the Big Thicket. This side is better for late afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun over the Gulf. Keep an eye out for Lake Houston, which is a major landmark just before landing.
Distance: 324 km (201 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 32 min
Departure: LFT (30.20529938, -91.98760223)
Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Route Type: Domestic
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