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MEM → MSY
Which side of the plane to sit from Memphis International Airport (Memphis) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (New Orleans)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a front-row seat to the iconic winding loops of the Mississippi River and the expansive wetlands of the Atchafalaya Basin during the descent.
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Mississippi River Meanders
Spectacular views of the river's dramatic oxbow lakes and constant horseshoe bends.
Vicksburg Bluffs
Historic terrain where the Civil War siege took place overlooking the river.
Baton Rouge Industry
The towering state capitol building and the massive refineries along the riverbanks.
Atchafalaya Swamps
Dense cypress swamps and water-logged terrain characteristic of deep Louisiana.
Bonnet Carré Spillway
A massive flood control structure located just west of the airport.
The right side is the 'scenic route' for water features. For the best photography of the river's reflection, book a late morning flight. Be aware that late afternoon flights on this side will face intense westward sun glare.
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Mississippi Delta
Intricate agricultural patterns and fertile plains of the southern Delta region.
Jackson Skyline
Distant views of Mississippi's capital city and its surrounding urban sprawl.
De Soto National Forest
Expansive views of the dense pine forests that characterize the inland Gulf Coast.
Lake Pontchartrain
The massive brackish lake bordering the north side of New Orleans.
Causeway Bridge
Potential sightings of the world's longest continuous bridge over water.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. This side is also excellent for viewing the vastness of Lake Pontchartrain as the pilot aligns for a southern approach into MSY.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 562 km (349 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 56 min
Departure: MEM (35.04240036010742, -89.97669982910156)
Arrival: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)
Route Type: Domestic
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