Loading map...
MSY → EYW
Which side of the plane to sit from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (New Orleans) to Key West International Airport (Key West)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer views of the Gulf of Mexico, the right side provides the most iconic perspective of the Mississippi Delta upon departure and the stunning turquoise coral reefs and island chain of the Florida Keys during the final approach.
Search flights from MSY to EYW
Mississippi River Delta
The unique 'Bird's Foot' delta where the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf, showing distinct sediment plumes.
Offshore Oil Platforms
Spot the industrial oil rigs scattered across the Gulf of Mexico during the mid-flight cruise phase.
Seven Mile Bridge
The iconic bridge connecting the middle and lower keys is often visible during the descent into the Key West area.
Key West Shoreline
Stunning views of the Atlantic side of the island, including Smathers Beach and the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the airport.
This is the 'scenic' side for the arrival. To maximize the experience, choose a flight that arrives between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the sun is high, which makes the turquoise water and coral reefs pop with the most color. Keep your camera ready as you pass Marathon for the best shots of the Overseas Highway.
Book Hotels in Key West
New Orleans & Lake Pontchartrain
View of the Crescent City, the Superdome, and the massive Causeway bridge stretching across Lake Pontchartrain immediately after takeoff.
The Deep Gulf
Expansive views of the deep blue Gulf of Mexico where the water clarity begins to change from silt-brown to azure.
Florida Bay
The northern, more secluded side of the Florida Keys and the fringes of the Everglades National Park as you begin your descent.
Stock Island
A close-up view of the working waterfront and marinas of Stock Island just before the wheels touch down.
Sit on this side for the best views of the New Orleans skyline during departure. On approach, you will see the calmer, shallow waters of the backcountry. If flying in the late afternoon, this side will be shaded and better for glare-free photography of the Florida Bay.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,034 km (642 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)
Arrival: EYW (24.55610084533691, -81.75959777832031)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.