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MSY → IAH
Which side of the plane to sit from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (New Orleans) to George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the Gulf of Mexico coastline, the intricate patterns of the Louisiana wetlands, and the industrial infrastructure of the Texas coast.
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Mississippi River Delta
Aerial view of the river's winding path and the bird's foot delta stretching toward the Gulf.
Coastal Marshlands
Vast stretches of southern Louisiana wetlands and barrier islands visible shortly after takeoff.
Sabine Lake
The large saltwater lake on the border of Louisiana and Texas, surrounded by heavy industry.
Galveston Bay
A clear view of the bay and the busy maritime traffic heading toward the Port of Houston.
Houston Skyline
During the final approach into IAH, you can often see the tall skyscrapers of downtown Houston to the south.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the French Quarter if departing to the south. Morning flights are preferred as the sun will be behind the plane, illuminating the coastline without glare. During descent, look for the intricate network of canals and oil industry infrastructure dotting the coast.
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Lake Pontchartrain
Extensive views of the massive lake and the 24-mile Causeway bridge on a northern departure.
Atchafalaya Basin
The largest river swamp in the United States, appearing as a dense, dark green wilderness.
Lake Charles
The city skyline and the prominent casino towers along the banks of the Calcasieu River.
Sam Houston Forest
The transformation of the landscape into the dense piney woods of East Texas during descent.
Lake Houston
A major reservoir visible just before landing, often marking the start of the final landing gear deployment.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff from MSY to capture the scale of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. This side also offers a better view of the transition from wetlands to the thick pine forests of the Texas interior.
Book Hotels in HoustonDistance: 490 km (304 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 49 min
Departure: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)
Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Route Type: Domestic
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