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PNS → HOU
Which side of the plane to sit from Pensacola Regional Airport (Pensacola) to William P Hobby Airport (Houston)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers superior views of the intricate Gulf Coast geography, including the city of New Orleans, the massive Atchafalaya swamp, and the industrial landscape of East Texas.
Mobile Bay
Crossing the wide bay with views of the USS Alabama battleship and the I-10 bridge.
New Orleans
A clear view of the Crescent City, the Superdome, and the winding path of the Mississippi River.
Atchafalaya Basin
The largest river swamp in the United States, featuring a maze of bayous and cypress trees.
Beaumont Refineries
One of the world's largest petrochemical complexes, which is particularly impressive when illuminated at night.
Houston Skyline
A panoramic view of Downtown Houston and the Medical Center during the final approach to Hobby.
The right side is the 'landmark side' for this route. To see New Orleans clearly, ensure you are seated away from the wing. This side is especially interesting during late afternoon flights as the sun begins to set over the Texas horizon, casting long shadows over the Louisiana wetlands. In the winter, the marshes appear in beautiful shades of gold and brown.
Santa Rosa Island
The striking white quartz sands and emerald waters of the Florida Panhandle immediately after takeoff.
Offshore Oil Rigs
Numerous oil and gas platforms dotting the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Mississippi River Mouth
The 'Bird's Foot' delta where the mighty Mississippi meets the Gulf, showing clear sediment lines.
Galveston Island
View of the historic seawall, Pleasure Pier, and the narrow barrier island upon the approach to Houston.
Sit on the left for unobstructed views of the Gulf of Mexico's vast horizon. This side is particularly scenic during morning flights when the sun reflects off the water, though you should watch for the distinct color change where the river silt meets the ocean. During the descent into HOU, keep an eye out for the Kemah Boardwalk and the Galveston ship channel.
Distance: 784 km (487 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 18 min
Departure: PNS (30.473400115967003, -87.18659973144501)
Arrival: HOU (29.64539909, -95.27890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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