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VSA → IAH
Which side of the plane to sit from Carlos Rovirosa Pérez International Airport (Villahermosa) to George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for viewing the lush Mexican wetlands upon departure, the sweeping curve of the Gulf of Mexico, and the iconic Texas coastline and Houston skyline during the approach.
Pantanos de Centla
Massive biosphere reserve wetlands and mangroves near the Tabasco coast shortly after takeoff.
Southern Gulf Coast
The dramatic transition from the Grijalva River mouth into the turquoise waters of the Gulf.
Galveston Island
The historic seawall, beaches, and the Pleasure Pier are often visible during the descent into Texas.
Galveston Bay
Busy shipping lanes and the Texas City dikes leading toward the Houston Ship Channel.
Houston Skyline
Panoramic views of Downtown Houston and the Medical Center skyscrapers depending on the landing pattern.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct sun glare from the east. This side is particularly rewarding during the final 20 minutes of flight as the aircraft crosses the Texas coastline. If the plane approaches IAH from the south, you will get a clear view of the urban sprawl and major sports stadiums.
Laguna de Términos
A vast coastal lagoon system visible to the east during the initial climb out of Villahermosa.
Offshore Oil Rigs
Clusters of deep-water drilling platforms and service vessels scattered across the northern Gulf.
Sabine Pass
The natural border between Texas and Louisiana, featuring heavy industrial infrastructure.
East Texas Piney Woods
Dense forest canopy and winding bayous visible as the plane enters the Houston terminal area.
Generation Park
The developing commercial hubs and suburban lakes of northeast Houston during final descent.
The right side is best for spotting the industrial heartbeat of the Gulf, including massive tankers and offshore platforms. For evening flights, the lighting on the right side provides excellent photography conditions for the clouds and sea without the harshness of the setting sun.
Distance: 1,357 km (843 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 49 min
Departure: VSA (17.996999740600586, -92.81739807128906)
Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Route Type: International
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