While takeoff offers compelling river views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides the most dramatic and sustained visual payoff—the Cascade Range and Mount Hood are iconic and visible for an extended period during descent. The left side wins for the overall journey.
Flown MSY to PDX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
New Orleans to Portland is 2,047 miles (3,295 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Great Plains and enters the Pacific Northwest near the Columbia River. Notable midpoint geography includes the Cascade Range's western foothills, the transition from agricultural plains to forested terrain around central Oregon, and the Columbia River Gorge (visible during final descent). The Snake River basin lies to the south of the direct routing. Weather patterns typically show clearer skies over Oregon than Louisiana, improving visibility for mountain viewing.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSY
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Mississippi River's dramatic curves and the New Orleans urban grid as you climb northwestward. The river's meanders are striking from altitude and remain visible for several minutes after departure.
Landing at PDX
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during descent into PDX. You'll see the Cascade Range's snow-capped peaks (Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson) rising dramatically to the east, and the Willamette Valley's patchwork farmland and urban sprawl below.
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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 Portland International (PDX)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from New Orleans to Portland. While takeoff offers compelling river views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides the most dramatic and sustained visual payoff—the Cascade Range and Mount Hood are iconic and visible for an extended period during descent. The left side wins for the overall journey.
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 capture the Mississippi River's dramatic curves and the New Orleans urban grid as you climb northwestward. The river's meanders are striking from altitude and remain visible for several minutes after departure. Notable sights include: Mississippi River (multiple oxbow bends), Lake Pontchartrain to the north, New Orleans downtown skyline, Crescent City Connection bridge.
What can I see when landing at Portland International in Portland?
When landing at Portland International (PDX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during descent into PDX. You'll see the Cascade Range's snow-capped peaks (Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson) rising dramatically to the east, and the Willamette Valley's patchwork farmland and urban sprawl below. Notable sights include: Mount Hood (11,240 ft, snow-covered), Cascade Range, Willamette Valley agricultural grid, Columbia River.
How long is the flight from New Orleans to Portland?
The flight from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) to Portland International (PDX) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,047 miles (3,295 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the New Orleans to Portland flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Great Plains and enters the Pacific Northwest near the Columbia River. Notable midpoint geography includes the Cascade Range's western foothills, the transition from agricultural plains to forested terrain around central Oregon, and the Columbia River Gorge (visible during final descent). The Snake River basin lies to the south of the direct routing. Weather patterns typically show clearer skies over Oregon than Louisiana, improving visibility for mountain viewing.