While both directions offer distinct advantages, right-side seats capture the most visually striking feature of the entire flight: the Mississippi River delta during departure. The delta's complex waterway system and wetlands are more dramatic and geographically distinctive than the landing approach.
Flown MSY to MCI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
New Orleans to Kansas City is 691 miles (1,112 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Arkansas and northern Arkansas, passing east of the Ozark Plateau. Notable features include the Arkansas River valley (visible from altitude as a linear depression), the White River system, and the transition from Mississippi River lowlands to the rolling terrain of the Ozark region. The landscape gradually transitions from flat delta and alluvial plains to more varied topography with visible river valleys and ridgelines as the aircraft approaches Missouri.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSY
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Mississippi River delta and its intricate waterway system as the aircraft climbs northward out of New Orleans. The river's distinctive meanders and surrounding wetlands are clearly visible during the initial climb phase.
Landing at MCI
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Kansas City metropolitan area and the Missouri River as the aircraft descends into MCI. The river's distinctive bends and the city's urban sprawl along both banks are prominent during final approach.
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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 Kansas City International (MCI)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from New Orleans to Kansas City. While both directions offer distinct advantages, right-side seats capture the most visually striking feature of the entire flight: the Mississippi River delta during departure. The delta's complex waterway system and wetlands are more dramatic and geographically distinctive than the landing approach.
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 Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Mississippi River delta and its intricate waterway system as the aircraft climbs northward out of New Orleans. The river's distinctive meanders and surrounding wetlands are clearly visible during the initial climb phase. Notable sights include: Mississippi River delta and distributaries, Lake Pontchartrain to the north, Breton Sound wetlands to the southeast, New Orleans urban area receding below.
What can I see when landing at Kansas City International in Kansas City?
When landing at Kansas City International (MCI), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Kansas City metropolitan area and the Missouri River as the aircraft descends into MCI. The river's distinctive bends and the city's urban sprawl along both banks are prominent during final approach. Notable sights include: Missouri River with its characteristic meanders, Kansas City downtown skyline and urban grid, Interstate 70 corridor, Brush Creek valley.
How long is the flight from New Orleans to Kansas City?
The flight from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) to Kansas City International (MCI) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 691 miles (1,112 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the New Orleans to Kansas City flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Arkansas and northern Arkansas, passing east of the Ozark Plateau. Notable features include the Arkansas River valley (visible from altitude as a linear depression), the White River system, and the transition from Mississippi River lowlands to the rolling terrain of the Ozark region. The landscape gradually transitions from flat delta and alluvial plains to more varied topography with visible river valleys and ridgelines as the aircraft approaches Missouri.