The takeoff experience from New Orleans offers more sustained and distinctive scenery (delta wetlands and Lake Pontchartrain) than the landing approach to Pico, which is brief and weather-dependent. Right-side seats capture the most visually interesting portion of this transatlantic flight.
Flown MSY to PIX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
New Orleans to Pico is 3,513 miles (5,654 km), a flight of about 7 hours 10 minutes.
The flight crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 7-8 hours with minimal visible landmarks. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge lies beneath the surface along the flight path but is not visible. Depending on routing, the aircraft may pass south of Bermuda (not visible at cruise altitude) and north of the Azores. The Azores archipelago becomes visible during the final 1.5-2 hours of descent, with Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, and São Miguel islands potentially visible in sequence as the aircraft approaches from the west.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSY
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River delta as the aircraft climbs northeast from MSY. The sprawling wetlands and waterways of southeastern Louisiana are distinctive and visible for the first 15-20 minutes of flight.
Landing at PIX
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Azores archipelago and the Atlantic approach to Pico Island. The volcanic peaks of Pico and neighboring São Jorge are striking during descent, particularly the 7,713-foot Mount Pico dominating the landscape.
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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 Pico (PIX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from New Orleans to Pico. The takeoff experience from New Orleans offers more sustained and distinctive scenery (delta wetlands and Lake Pontchartrain) than the landing approach to Pico, which is brief and weather-dependent. Right-side seats capture the most visually interesting portion of this transatlantic flight.
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 Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River delta as the aircraft climbs northeast from MSY. The sprawling wetlands and waterways of southeastern Louisiana are distinctive and visible for the first 15-20 minutes of flight. Notable sights include: Lake Pontchartrain, Mississippi River delta and distributaries, New Orleans urban area, Breton Sound.
What can I see when landing at Pico in Pico?
When landing at Pico (PIX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Azores archipelago and the Atlantic approach to Pico Island. The volcanic peaks of Pico and neighboring São Jorge are striking during descent, particularly the 7,713-foot Mount Pico dominating the landscape. Notable sights include: Mount Pico (volcanic peak), São Jorge Island, Faial Island, Atlantic Ocean.
How long is the flight from New Orleans to Pico?
The flight from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) to Pico (PIX) takes about 7 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,513 miles (5,654 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the New Orleans to Pico flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 7-8 hours with minimal visible landmarks. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge lies beneath the surface along the flight path but is not visible. Depending on routing, the aircraft may pass south of Bermuda (not visible at cruise altitude) and north of the Azores. The Azores archipelago becomes visible during the final 1.5-2 hours of descent, with Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, and São Miguel islands potentially visible in sequence as the aircraft approaches from the west.