The right side delivers the spectacular Miami departure views over Biscayne Bay and the city skyline, and during the cruise phase over the Gulf Coast, the right side also faces south toward the Gulf of Mexico's open water and the Louisiana coastal marshes on approach. The left side wins at landing but the right side has stronger overall scenery across the full flight.
Flown MIA to MSY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Miami to New Orleans is 674 miles (1,085 km), a flight of about 1 hour 30 minutes.
The flight tracks northwest over the Florida Everglades, then crosses the Gulf of Mexico's northeastern corner near the Florida Panhandle coast. Passengers can see the shallow green-brown waters of the Gulf, the Chandeleur Islands chain off Louisiana, and the vast Mississippi River Delta wetlands — a patchwork of marsh, open water, and sediment channels — as the aircraft descends toward New Orleans.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MIA
RIGHTMIA typically departs westbound on runway 08R/26L or northbound, and a right-side seat gives you views over Biscayne Bay, the Port of Miami, and downtown Miami's skyline as the aircraft climbs and turns northwest. The turquoise shallow waters of Biscayne Bay and the dense urban grid of Miami are clearly visible on the right during the initial climb.
Landing at MSY
LEFTMSY typically lands on runway 10/28 or 20, and approaching from the southeast, the left side faces south toward the Mississippi River's dramatic bends, Lake Pontchartrain, and the New Orleans urban area. The left seat gives a clear view of the city grid, the river's distinctive crescent bend, and the vast open water of Lake Pontchartrain during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Miami International (MIA) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Miami to New Orleans. The right side delivers the spectacular Miami departure views over Biscayne Bay and the city skyline, and during the cruise phase over the Gulf Coast, the right side also faces south toward the Gulf of Mexico's open water and the Louisiana coastal marshes on approach. The left side wins at landing but the right side has stronger overall scenery across the full flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Miami International in Miami?
During takeoff from Miami International (MIA), sit on the Right side for the best views. MIA typically departs westbound on runway 08R/26L or northbound, and a right-side seat gives you views over Biscayne Bay, the Port of Miami, and downtown Miami's skyline as the aircraft climbs and turns northwest. The turquoise shallow waters of Biscayne Bay and the dense urban grid of Miami are clearly visible on the right during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Biscayne Bay, Port of Miami cruise terminals, Downtown Miami skyline, Miami Beach barrier island.
What can I see when landing at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International in New Orleans?
When landing at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY), sit on the Left side for the best views. MSY typically lands on runway 10/28 or 20, and approaching from the southeast, the left side faces south toward the Mississippi River's dramatic bends, Lake Pontchartrain, and the New Orleans urban area. The left seat gives a clear view of the city grid, the river's distinctive crescent bend, and the vast open water of Lake Pontchartrain during descent. Notable sights include: Mississippi River crescent bend, Lake Pontchartrain, New Orleans city grid and French Quarter, Lake Borgne to the east.
How long is the flight from Miami to New Orleans?
The flight from Miami International (MIA) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 674 miles (1,085 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Miami to New Orleans flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northwest over the Florida Everglades, then crosses the Gulf of Mexico's northeastern corner near the Florida Panhandle coast. Passengers can see the shallow green-brown waters of the Gulf, the Chandeleur Islands chain off Louisiana, and the vast Mississippi River Delta wetlands — a patchwork of marsh, open water, and sediment channels — as the aircraft descends toward New Orleans.