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MCO destination photo
MSY destination photo

MCOMSY

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏰

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌳

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.

Top Activities in New Orleans
Route Information

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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