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MCO destination photo
IAH destination photo

MCOIAH

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the scenic Gulf Coast shoreline, including the brilliant white sands of the Florida Panhandle and the unique geography of New Orleans and Lake Pontchartrain.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🎢

Orlando Theme Parks

Aerial views of the massive resort complexes including Walt Disney World shortly after departure from MCO.

🏖️

The Emerald Coast

The striking contrast of turquoise water and bright white quartz sand along Destin and Panama City Beach.

⚓

Mobile Bay

The wide expanse of the bay in Alabama, featuring the city of Mobile and the USS Alabama battleship.

🎷

New Orleans

Visuals of the Crescent City, the Mississippi River loops, and the massive Lake Pontchartrain Causeway.

🌲

Texas Piney Woods

Dense evergreen forests and sprawling bayous of East Texas as the plane begins its descent into Houston.

Sit on the right side and choose a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat blur. On clear days, the 24-mile Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is a highlight that appears roughly 40-50 minutes before landing.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🌊

Gulf of Mexico

Vast, uninterrupted views of the deep blue waters and the occasional glint of sunlight on the waves.

🚢

Shipping Arteries

Major maritime lanes filled with cargo ships and tankers maneuvering toward the Port of Houston.

🏗️

Offshore Oil Rigs

Clusters of industrial platforms and drilling rigs visible as you cross the continental shelf.

🌾

Mississippi River Delta

The southern tip of the 'bird's foot' delta where the Mississippi River flows into the sea.

🏖️

Galveston Island

Clear views of the historic Texas barrier island and the Galveston Seawall during the final approach.

The left side is the preferred choice for evening flights to catch a sunset over the water. Keep your eyes peeled for sediment plumes near the Louisiana coast where the river water mixes with the Gulf.

Top Activities in Houston
Route Information

Distance: 1,372 km (853 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 50 min

Departure: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)

Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Route Type: Domestic

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