Right-side seats capture the superior takeoff views of Lake Pontchartrain and the delta. While left wins on landing, the 45-minute flight path is relatively short and the takeoff experience is more visually rewarding on the right.
Flown MSY to NAS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
New Orleans to Nassau is 855 miles (1,376 km), a flight of about 2 hours 20 minutes.
The flight crosses the Gulf of Mexico at roughly 10,000-15,000 feet. You'll see the open water of the Gulf with occasional cargo ships and fishing vessels. The Bahama Banks begin appearing about 20 minutes into the flight as the water transitions from deep blue to turquoise, visible from both sides. No significant landmasses exist along the direct MSY-NAS route—it's primarily open water and shallow banks.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSY
RIGHTMSY typically departs eastbound (Runways 10L/10R). Right-side seats offer views of Lake Pontchartrain's northern shore and the Mississippi River delta as you climb out over the water. Left seats see the city and swamps inland.
Landing at NAS
LEFTNAS typically lands westbound (Runway 09). Left-side seats provide views of Nassau's harbor, Paradise Island, and the turquoise Bahama Banks as you descend. Right seats see open ocean and less distinctive features.
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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 Nassau International (NAS)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from New Orleans to Nassau. Right-side seats capture the superior takeoff views of Lake Pontchartrain and the delta. While left wins on landing, the 45-minute flight path is relatively short and the takeoff experience is more visually rewarding on the right.
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. MSY typically departs eastbound (Runways 10L/10R). Right-side seats offer views of Lake Pontchartrain's northern shore and the Mississippi River delta as you climb out over the water. Left seats see the city and swamps inland. Notable sights include: Lake Pontchartrain (massive freshwater lake immediately east), Mississippi River (visible as a brown ribbon curving through the delta), New Orleans city grid (receding westward), Swamp terrain with scattered waterways (to the northwest).
What can I see when landing at Nassau International in Nassau?
When landing at Nassau International (NAS), sit on the Left side for the best views. NAS typically lands westbound (Runway 09). Left-side seats provide views of Nassau's harbor, Paradise Island, and the turquoise Bahama Banks as you descend. Right seats see open ocean and less distinctive features. Notable sights include: Nassau Harbor (deep blue water with visible boat traffic), Paradise Island (low-lying island with resort development, north of harbor), Bahama Banks (brilliant turquoise shallow water surrounding the islands), New Providence Island (the main island, appearing as low scrubland).
How long is the flight from New Orleans to Nassau?
The flight from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) to Nassau International (NAS) takes about 2 hours 20 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 855 miles (1,376 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the New Orleans to Nassau flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Gulf of Mexico at roughly 10,000-15,000 feet. You'll see the open water of the Gulf with occasional cargo ships and fishing vessels. The Bahama Banks begin appearing about 20 minutes into the flight as the water transitions from deep blue to turquoise, visible from both sides. No significant landmasses exist along the direct MSY-NAS route—it's primarily open water and shallow banks.