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MSY → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (New Orleans) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior lighting for photography on westbound flights and provides iconic views of the Southwest's high deserts, white sand dunes, and the Los Angeles skyline upon arrival.
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Lake Pontchartrain
A massive estuary north of New Orleans, often visible during the initial climb out of MSY.
White Sands National Park
The world's largest gypsum dune field in New Mexico appears as a brilliant, stark white patch amidst the brown desert.
Gila Wilderness
Rugged canyons and forested mountains in New Mexico, marking the transition into the high desert of the West.
Joshua Tree National Park
The distinctive Mojave Desert landscape characterized by twisted trees and massive boulder formations.
Downtown LA & Hollywood
During the typical approach to LAX, the right side offers a spectacular panorama of the LA skyscrapers and the Hollywood Sign.
The right side is ideal for westbound flights to avoid direct sunlight. During the descent into LAX, keep your camera ready about 15 minutes before landing for the best views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the urban sprawl of Los Angeles. For the clearest views of White Sands, choose a midday flight when the sun is high.
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Atchafalaya Basin
The largest wetland and swamp in the United States, visible shortly after departure from New Orleans.
Houston & Gulf Coast
Aerial views of the sprawling Houston metro area and the distant shimmering waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Chihuahuan Desert
Vast stretches of arid landscape across West Texas and Southern New Mexico featuring unique geological formations.
The Salton Sea
A massive, saline endorheic rift lake located in the California desert, appearing as a deep blue mirage.
San Jacinto Peak
The 10,834-foot peak towers over Palm Springs as you cross into the Los Angeles basin.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to see the sunrise over the bayous. However, be aware that on afternoon flights, the sun will be directly in your window for most of the journey, which can lead to significant glare and heat.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,683 km (1,667 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 35 min
Departure: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
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