About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) to Philadelphia International (PHL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from New Orleans to Philadelphia. While takeoff offers compelling delta and lake views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and recognizable urban scenery with the Delaware River, Schuylkill River, and Philadelphia skyline. The left side captures the most visually distinctive portion of this route.
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 Lake Pontchartrain as the aircraft climbs northeastward out of MSY. The river's distinctive meandering channels and the lake's broad expanse are prominent during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Mississippi River delta with its branching channels, Lake Pontchartrain to the north, New Orleans urban area receding below, Gulf of Mexico coastline to the south.
What can I see when landing at Philadelphia International in Philadelphia?
When landing at Philadelphia International (PHL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into PHL. The aircraft descends over the Delaware River valley and the Schuylkill River, with Philadelphia's downtown skyline and surrounding urban landscape clearly visible on the left side during the final approach vectors. Notable sights include: Delaware River running north-south, Schuylkill River confluence, Philadelphia downtown skyline and urban grid, New Jersey Pine Barrens to the west.
How long is the flight from New Orleans to Philadelphia?
The flight from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) to Philadelphia International (PHL) takes Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes.
What does the New Orleans to Philadelphia flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Appalachian foothills of Tennessee and Kentucky, with the Cumberland Plateau and ridge-and-valley topography visible from altitude. The Ohio River valley appears as a distinct linear feature. Over West Virginia and Virginia, the Blue Ridge Mountains form a parallel ridge system running northeast-southwest. The Shenandoah Valley lies between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. As the aircraft approaches Pennsylvania, the Great Valley and South Mountain become visible before descending into the Delaware River valley.