About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to New Orleans. While the left side wins at takeoff for the Chicago skyline, the right side delivers more sustained interest across the full flight — including the Mississippi River crossings over Missouri and Arkansas, and the spectacular Lake Pontchartrain and Mississippi River delta approach into New Orleans.
What can I see during takeoff from Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
During takeoff from Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Left side for the best views. O'Hare's most common departure runways (9L/9R heading east, or 10L/10R) put the left side facing north toward the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline. As the aircraft turns southward toward New Orleans, the left side gets a prolonged view of downtown Chicago's dense skyscraper cluster and the lakefront. Notable sights include: Chicago downtown skyline (Willis Tower, John Hancock), Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago River grid, Midway Airport visible to the south.
What can I see when landing at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International in New Orleans?
When landing at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY), sit on the Right side for the best views. MSY sits just west of New Orleans, and aircraft typically approach from the north or northeast on runways 20/29. A right-side seat on approach gives views of Lake Pontchartrain's broad southern shore, the New Orleans urban area, and the Mississippi River's dramatic bends through the city. Notable sights include: Lake Pontchartrain southern shoreline, Mississippi River meanders through New Orleans, Lake Borgne to the east, New Orleans urban grid and French Quarter area.
How long is the flight from Chicago to New Orleans?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) takes Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes.
What does the Chicago to New Orleans flight path pass over?
The flight tracks south-southwest over central Illinois farmland, crosses the Mississippi River near St. Louis (Gateway Arch visible on clear days from the right side), continues over the Ozark Plateau of southern Missouri and northern Arkansas, crosses the Arkansas River valley, then transitions into the flat Mississippi Alluvial Plain of Louisiana. The final descent reveals the vast wetlands and bayous of the Mississippi River delta system north of New Orleans.