While takeoff offers excellent delta views on the left, the landing approach on the right provides more sustained scenic interest with the Rhine-Main river system and Frankfurt's urban landscape. The right side captures the geographic highlight of the destination region.
Flown MSY to FRA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
New Orleans to Frankfurt is 5,022 miles (8,081 km), a flight of about 10 hours.
Over the Atlantic, you'll cross the Mid-Atlantic Ridge region (not visually distinctive at cruise altitude). Approaching Europe, the flight passes over the British Isles and North Sea—if visible through clouds, you may see the UK coastline and Scottish Highlands. The approach to Frankfurt crosses the Low Countries and western Germany, with the Rhine River becoming increasingly prominent as you descend into the Frankfurt region.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSY
LEFTLeft side offers views of Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River delta as you climb out northeastward. The river's distinctive meanders and the lake's broad expanse are clearly visible during the initial climb.
Landing at FRA
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Rhine River valley and the Main River as you descend into Frankfurt. These river systems are prominent geographic features visible on approach, and the right bank offers better sightlines to the Main's confluence and Frankfurt's skyline.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) to Frankfurt Main (FRA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from New Orleans to Frankfurt. While takeoff offers excellent delta views on the left, the landing approach on the right provides more sustained scenic interest with the Rhine-Main river system and Frankfurt's urban landscape. The right side captures the geographic highlight of the destination region.
What can I see during takeoff from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International in New Orleans?
During takeoff from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River delta as you climb out northeastward. The river's distinctive meanders and the lake's broad expanse are clearly visible during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Lake Pontchartrain, Mississippi River delta and meanders, New Orleans urban grid, Gulf of Mexico coastline.
What can I see when landing at Frankfurt Main in Frankfurt?
When landing at Frankfurt Main (FRA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Rhine River valley and the Main River as you descend into Frankfurt. These river systems are prominent geographic features visible on approach, and the right bank offers better sightlines to the Main's confluence and Frankfurt's skyline. Notable sights include: Rhine River valley, Main River, Frankfurt skyline and city center, Taunus hills to the north.
How long is the flight from New Orleans to Frankfurt?
The flight from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) to Frankfurt Main (FRA) takes about 10 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 5,022 miles (8,081 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the New Orleans to Frankfurt flight path pass over?
Over the Atlantic, you'll cross the Mid-Atlantic Ridge region (not visually distinctive at cruise altitude). Approaching Europe, the flight passes over the British Isles and North Sea—if visible through clouds, you may see the UK coastline and Scottish Highlands. The approach to Frankfurt crosses the Low Countries and western Germany, with the Rhine River becoming increasingly prominent as you descend into the Frankfurt region.