The left side wins because the direct MCO-IAH routing runs just north of the Gulf Coast, giving repeated glimpses of Gulf of Mexico shoreline, Mobile Bay, and the Lake Pontchartrain/New Orleans area during cruise, plus a strong Disney World view at takeoff — far more variety than the flat inland farmland visible on the right.
Flown MCO to IAH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Orlando to Houston is 853 miles (1,372 km), a flight of about 2 hours 45 minutes.
Gulf of Mexico coastline and barrier islands near the Florida Panhandle and Alabama coast, Mobile Bay, and the Lake Pontchartrain/New Orleans area as the flight path parallels the Gulf Coast toward Louisiana and Texas.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MCO
LEFTMCO's typical south-flow departure has aircraft climb out to the south before turning west, putting Walt Disney World's parks and Orlando's chain of lakes in view on the left side. The right side over MCO's north side shows only generic suburban sprawl.
Landing at IAH
RIGHTArrivals into IAH from the east typically bank to align with the north-south runways, bringing downtown Houston's skyline into view on the right side during the turn. The left side mostly shows flat industrial land and the Houston Ship Channel with less visual definition.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Orlando International (MCO) to George Bush Intcntl Houston (IAH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Orlando to Houston. The left side wins because the direct MCO-IAH routing runs just north of the Gulf Coast, giving repeated glimpses of Gulf of Mexico shoreline, Mobile Bay, and the Lake Pontchartrain/New Orleans area during cruise, plus a strong Disney World view at takeoff — far more variety than the flat inland farmland visible on the right.
What can I see during takeoff from Orlando International in Orlando?
During takeoff from Orlando International (MCO), sit on the Left side for the best views. MCO's typical south-flow departure has aircraft climb out to the south before turning west, putting Walt Disney World's parks and Orlando's chain of lakes in view on the left side. The right side over MCO's north side shows only generic suburban sprawl. Notable sights include: Walt Disney World (EPCOT geosphere, Magic Kingdom area), Orlando's lake district (Lake Buena Vista), Orange County suburbs.
What can I see when landing at George Bush Intcntl Houston in Houston?
When landing at George Bush Intcntl Houston (IAH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Arrivals into IAH from the east typically bank to align with the north-south runways, bringing downtown Houston's skyline into view on the right side during the turn. The left side mostly shows flat industrial land and the Houston Ship Channel with less visual definition. Notable sights include: Downtown Houston skyline, Houston Ship Channel, Sam Houston Tollway loop, flat Gulf Coastal Plain.
How long is the flight from Orlando to Houston?
The flight from Orlando International (MCO) to George Bush Intcntl Houston (IAH) takes about 2 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 853 miles (1,372 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Orlando to Houston flight path pass over?
Gulf of Mexico coastline and barrier islands near the Florida Panhandle and Alabama coast, Mobile Bay, and the Lake Pontchartrain/New Orleans area as the flight path parallels the Gulf Coast toward Louisiana and Texas.