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MSY → BNA
Which side of the plane to sit from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (New Orleans) to Nashville International Airport (Nashville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the New Orleans skyline and the iconic Lake Pontchartrain Causeway during departure, while typically providing the best angle for the Nashville city center on the final approach.
New Orleans Skyline
Aerial views of the Superdome and the winding Mississippi River shortly after takeoff from MSY.
Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
The world's longest continuous bridge over water, stretching nearly 24 miles across the lake.
Jackson, Mississippi
The capital city of Mississippi is often visible mid-flight as the plane heads north-northeast.
Natchez Trace Parkway
A historic forest trail and scenic parkway that winds through the lush greenery of the Deep South.
Music City Skyline
Excellent views of the 'Batman Building' (AT&T Building) and downtown Nashville during the final descent.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. Watch closely within the first 5 minutes of departure for the best views of the French Quarter and the Causeway. On clear nights, the grid of New Orleans looks spectacular reflecting off the water.
Eastern Lake Pontchartrain
Expansive views of the marshlands and the Rigolets pass connecting the lake to the Gulf of Mexico.
Mississippi Pine Belt
Vast stretches of dense pine forests and rural landscape across southern and central Mississippi.
Tennessee River
The wide river crossing near the Alabama/Tennessee border, often featuring large barges and locks.
Percy Priest Lake
A massive 14,000-acre reservoir that serves as a landmark just miles before touching down at BNA.
Middle Tennessee Hills
The rolling green topography and large estates of the Brentwood and Franklin areas.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. During the autumn months, this side offers great views of the changing foliage in the Tennessee Valley. Keep an eye out for the large reservoir of Percy Priest Lake which signals you are moments from landing.
Distance: 759 km (472 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 16 min
Departure: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)
Arrival: BNA (36.1245002746582, -86.6781997680664)
Route Type: Domestic
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