While takeoff from Aruba favors the right side, the landing approach into Houston provides more dramatic and extensive scenery on the left. The Gulf Coast, Galveston Bay system, and Houston's sprawling metropolitan area offer more visual interest than the relatively flat Caribbean departure.
Flown AUA to IAH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Oranjestad to Houston is 2,021 miles (3,252 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Gulf of Mexico at roughly 20,000-28,000 feet. Notable features include the Yucatan Peninsula visible to the left (south) during the northern portion of the crossing, and the Louisiana and Texas coastlines becoming visible as the aircraft approaches the continental United States. The Gulf itself appears as open blue water with occasional cloud formations and weather systems. No major landmarks are prominently visible during the mid-ocean portion, but the gradual transition from open water to coastal features marks the approach to North America.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from AUA
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Aruba's northern coastline and the Caribbean Sea immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northwestward, giving right-side passengers clear sightlines of the island's distinctive geography and turquoise waters.
Landing at IAH
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Texas Gulf Coast, Galveston Bay, and the Houston metropolitan area during descent. The approach path from the southeast brings the left side into view of Galveston Island, the bay system, and the sprawling city before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Reina Beatrix International (AUA) to George Bush Intcntl Houston (IAH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Oranjestad to Houston. While takeoff from Aruba favors the right side, the landing approach into Houston provides more dramatic and extensive scenery on the left. The Gulf Coast, Galveston Bay system, and Houston's sprawling metropolitan area offer more visual interest than the relatively flat Caribbean departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Reina Beatrix International in Oranjestad?
During takeoff from Reina Beatrix International (AUA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Aruba's northern coastline and the Caribbean Sea immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northwestward, giving right-side passengers clear sightlines of the island's distinctive geography and turquoise waters. Notable sights include: Aruba's northern coast with Palm Beach area, Caribbean Sea, Malmok Beach headland, and the flat terrain of central Aruba receding southward.
What can I see when landing at George Bush Intcntl Houston in Houston?
When landing at George Bush Intcntl Houston (IAH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Texas Gulf Coast, Galveston Bay, and the Houston metropolitan area during descent. The approach path from the southeast brings the left side into view of Galveston Island, the bay system, and the sprawling city before touchdown. Notable sights include: Galveston Bay with its barrier islands, Galveston Island, the Houston Ship Channel, and the urban sprawl of greater Houston.
How long is the flight from Oranjestad to Houston?
The flight from Reina Beatrix International (AUA) to George Bush Intcntl Houston (IAH) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,021 miles (3,252 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Oranjestad to Houston flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Gulf of Mexico at roughly 20,000-28,000 feet. Notable features include the Yucatan Peninsula visible to the left (south) during the northern portion of the crossing, and the Louisiana and Texas coastlines becoming visible as the aircraft approaches the continental United States. The Gulf itself appears as open blue water with occasional cloud formations and weather systems. No major landmarks are prominently visible during the mid-ocean portion, but the gradual transition from open water to coastal features marks the approach to North America.