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MSY → PHL
Which side of the plane to sit from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (New Orleans) to Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of Lake Pontchartrain and the world's longest bridge upon departure, followed by the rolling Appalachian foothills and the best angle for the Philadelphia skyline during the final approach.
Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
Aerial view of the world's longest bridge over water stretching across the massive lake immediately after departing MSY.
Appalachian Foothills
Rolling green hills and dense forest canopy visible as the flight traverses Alabama and Georgia.
DC and Baltimore Skylines
On clear days, the monuments of Washington D.C. and the inner harbor of Baltimore are visible during the descent.
Philadelphia Skyline
A prime view of the Center City skyscrapers and the Philadelphia Museum of Art during the standard approach into PHL.
Sit on the left for the best views of the New Orleans metro area. During late afternoon or evening flights, this side also avoids the direct glare of the setting sun, making it easier to take photos of the Mid-Atlantic landscape.
Mississippi Sound
The barrier islands and white sand beaches of the Gulf Coast are often visible shortly after takeoff.
Chesapeake Bay
Extensive views of the winding coastal waterways, islands, and ship traffic near the Virginia and Maryland coastlines.
Delaware River
A close-up look at the industrial ports and bridge infrastructure along the river as you track north into Philadelphia.
The right side is excellent for morning flights to see the sunrise over the Atlantic horizon. As you approach PHL, look for the Delaware Memorial Bridge and the Commodore Barry Bridge which are prominent landmarks from this side.
Distance: 1,751 km (1,088 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 20 min
Departure: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)
Arrival: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Route Type: Domestic
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