Loading map...
MIA â MSY
Which side of the plane to sit from Miami International Airport (Miami) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (New Orleans)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route primarily due to the spectacular aerial view of the Mississippi River Delta and the 'bird's foot' formation during the descent into New Orleans.
Biscayne Bay & Miami Skyline
Stunning views of the Atlantic coast, the Port of Miami, and the downtown skyscrapers immediately after takeoff.
Deep Gulf Waters
Experience the color transition from the turquoise Florida shelf to the deep indigo of the open Gulf of Mexico.
Offshore Oil Platforms
Spot complex industrial rigs scattered throughout the Gulf, especially as you approach the Louisiana coast.
Mississippi River Delta
A world-class geographic view of the 'bird's foot' delta where the Mississippi River meets the sea.
Mississippi River Meanders
Watch the dramatic, winding loops of the river as it snakes toward the city during your final approach.
Choose the left side for sunset views on evening flights, as the sun will set over the Gulf horizon. During the descent, keep your eyes peeled for the distinct sediment plumes where the Mississippi River discharges into the Gulf.
Everglades National Park
View the vast 'River of Grass' and the unique marshland patterns of the South Florida wilderness.
Florida Emerald Coast
If the flight path hugs the shoreline, you will see the white sands of Destin and Pensacola.
Mobile Bay
The large bay and port of Mobile, Alabama, are often visible during the mid-flight transition.
Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
A clear view of the world's longest bridge over water as you descend into the New Orleans area.
Downtown New Orleans
Often provides a glimpse of the Superdome and the French Quarter depending on the wind direction and landing runway.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun glare. It offers the most consistent views of the Gulf Coast shoreline and the massive expanse of Lake Pontchartrain just north of the city.
Distance: 1,085 km (674 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min
Departure: MIA (25.79319953918457, -80.29060363769531)
Arrival: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.