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MEM destination photo
IAH destination photo

MEMIAH

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side of the aircraft offers superior views of the meandering Mississippi River shortly after takeoff and the expansive wetlands of the Gulf Coast and Galveston Bay as you descend into Houston.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Mississippi River

Vibrant views of the massive, winding river system immediately after departing Memphis.

🐊

Louisiana Bayou

Intricate networks of wetlands and swampy terrain visible across northern Louisiana.

⚓

Galveston Bay

A broad view of the bay and the Gulf of Mexico coastline during the descent phase.

🏗️

Port of Houston

One of the world's busiest ports, featuring massive ships and industrial infrastructure.

🏖️

Bolivar Peninsula

The thin strip of land separating the bay from the open Gulf waters.

For the best visibility of the Mississippi River, choose a seat behind the wing to avoid engine glare. Morning flights are ideal as the sun rises on the left, illuminating the river's curves. During the descent into IAH, keep a close watch for the Houston Ship Channel which leads directly into the city's industrial heart.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🌾

Arkansas Farmland

Distinctive geometric patterns of the Grand Prairie region's rice and soybean fields.

🛶

Red River

The sinuous, silty-red waterway that marks the transition into the Texas landscape.

🌲

East Texas Piney Woods

Dense, evergreen forests that dominate the landscape between Shreveport and Houston.

🎣

Lake Livingston

A massive reservoir and popular recreational spot visible just before landing.

🏢

Houston Skyline

A distant view of the downtown skyscrapers depending on the specific arrival runway.

On the right side, you will have a more direct view of the Arkansas-Texas transition. If the flight arrives from the north, sit on the right for a chance to see the downtown Houston skyline during the final approach. This side is also better for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun.

Top Activities in Houston
Route Information

Distance: 754 km (469 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 15 min

Departure: MEM (35.04240036010742, -89.97669982910156)

Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Route Type: Domestic

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