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MCO → MSY
Which side of the plane to sit from Orlando International Airport (Orlando) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (New Orleans)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic entry into Louisiana, providing sweeping views of the Mississippi River's complex delta systems and the iconic New Orleans skyline upon descent.
Orlando Theme Parks
Aerial views of the massive resort complexes including Disney World and Universal shortly after takeoff from MCO.
Gulf of Mexico
A vast expanse of deep blue water as the aircraft tracks across the northeastern corner of the Gulf.
Mississippi River Delta
Witness the incredible 'Bird's Foot' delta where the sediment-rich river branches out into the sea.
New Orleans Skyline
Clear views of the Caesars Superdome and the skyscrapers of the Central Business District during the final approach.
Port of South Louisiana
Observe the massive cargo ships and industrial activity along the winding banks of the lower Mississippi.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is superior for photography of the river's dramatic horseshoe bends. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing as the plane crosses the Louisiana coastline.
Ocala National Forest
Extensive green canopy and natural springs visible north of the flight path during the initial climb.
Emerald Coast
The stunning white quartz sand beaches of the Florida Panhandle and the turquoise waters of Destin and Pensacola.
Mobile Bay
The large inlet of the Gulf in Alabama, featuring the historic port and the USS Alabama battleship.
Mississippi Sound Islands
A chain of scenic barrier islands including Ship Island and Cat Island stretching along the Mississippi coast.
Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
The world's longest continuous bridge over water, appearing as a thin line bisecting the massive lake.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. It provides a more consistent view of the shoreline and coastal wetlands. Look for the long straight line of the Causeway bridge as you enter the New Orleans airspace.
Distance: 886 km (551 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)
Arrival: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)
Route Type: Domestic
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