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MGA → IAH
Which side of the plane to sit from Augusto C. Sandino (Managua) International Airport (Managua) to George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Pacific Volcanic Range of Nicaragua shortly after takeoff and the rugged mountain terrain of Honduras before the Gulf crossing.
Momotombo Volcano
Rising sharply from the shores of Lake Managua, this iconic stratovolcano is visible almost immediately after departure.
Lake Managua (Xolotlán)
Sweeping views of the lake's western shore and the surrounding volcanic craters like Apoyeque.
Gulf of Fonseca
The unique tri-national coastal point where Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador meet.
Sierra de Agalta
Dense, cloud-forested mountain ranges in central Honduras as the flight heads north.
Texas Gulf Coast
As you descend into Houston, views of the intricate barrier islands and the industrial ports of the Texas coast.
For the best experience on this northward flight, the left side avoids the harsh morning sun glare. Look out the window immediately after takeoff to catch the Cordillera de los Maribios volcanic chain. On clear days, you can see as far as the Pacific Ocean during the first 20 minutes of flight.
Lake Nicaragua (Cocibolca)
The massive inland sea is visible to the southeast during the initial ascent phase.
The Mosquitia Rainforest
Vast stretches of untouched tropical wilderness along the eastern border of Honduras.
Bay Islands
Distant views of Roatán and Utila may be possible depending on how far east the flight path swings over the Caribbean.
Gulf of Mexico Shipping Lanes
Spotting massive cargo ships and tankers navigating toward the Port of Houston.
Downtown Houston Skyline
Depending on the landing pattern at IAH, the right side often gets a view of the high-rises of the Energy Corridor and Downtown.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the setting sun. Keep an eye out for the turquoise waters of the Caribbean coast as you transition from land to sea. During the descent, the right side often provides a better perspective of the sprawling Houston metropolitan area.
Distance: 2,198 km (1,366 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 56 min
Departure: MGA (12.14150047302246, -86.16819763183594)
Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Route Type: International
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