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MCI destination photo
MSY destination photo

MCIMSY

Our Recommendation
7.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is generally superior for this route as it provides a clearer view of the Kansas City skyline during departure and the iconic approach over Lake Pontchartrain into New Orleans.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

Kansas City Skyline

Aerial views of the Power and Light District and the Missouri River loop shortly after takeoff from MCI.

⛰️

The Ozark Plateau

Rolling green hills and dense forest canopies of southern Missouri and northern Arkansas.

💧

Mississippi River Meanders

The massive river becomes visible mid-flight, showcasing dramatic oxbow lakes and silver-blue curves.

🌉

Lake Pontchartrain Causeway

View the world's longest continuous bridge over water as you descend toward New Orleans.

🎺

New Orleans Skyline

Direct views of the Superdome, the French Quarter, and the dense urban core during the final approach.

Book a window seat on the left for the best chance to see the New Orleans city center. Afternoon flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, lighting up the Mississippi Delta and the city's landmarks without glare. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the Lake Pontchartrain crossing.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🚜

Heartland Farmland

Extensive geometric patchworks of Missouri and Arkansas agriculture transitioning into the deep south.

🛶

Arkansas River Valley

A wide crossing of the Arkansas River near Little Rock with views of the rugged Ouachita mountain ridges to the west.

🐊

Louisiana Bayous

Intricate networks of swamps, marshes, and winding waterways as the plane descends into the Gulf Coast region.

🚢

Mississippi River Industry

Heavy industrial infrastructure, refineries, and massive cargo ships navigating the lower Mississippi River corridor.

The right side is perfect for evening flights to catch the sunset over the western horizon and the Ouachita Mountains. It also offers a detailed look at the complex hydrological patterns of the Louisiana wetlands and the industrial magnitude of the river's shipping lanes north of the airport.

Top Activities in New Orleans
Route Information

Distance: 1,112 km (691 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min

Departure: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)

Arrival: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)

Route Type: Domestic

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