While the takeoff offers dramatic Sierra Nevada views on the left, the landing approach provides more visually distinctive and geographically iconic scenery with the Mississippi River crescent and New Orleans cityscape. The landing view is more memorable and unique to this specific route.
Flown RNO to MSY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Reno to New Orleans is 1,789 miles (2,879 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
Great Salt Lake (Utah), Wasatch Range, Colorado Plateau, Mississippi River valley approaching Louisiana, transition from high desert to Gulf Coast lowlands
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from RNO
LEFTLeft seats offer immediate views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range rising directly west of Reno. The peaks are dramatic and snow-capped (seasonally), providing striking scenery during climb-out. Right seats face the high desert plateau with minimal visual interest.
Landing at MSY
RIGHTRight seats capture the Mississippi River and the New Orleans urban landscape during approach. The river's distinctive meanders and the city's position on the crescent bend are visually striking. Left seats face the Gulf of Mexico and coastal marshlands with less defined features.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Reno Tahoe International (RNO) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Reno to New Orleans. While the takeoff offers dramatic Sierra Nevada views on the left, the landing approach provides more visually distinctive and geographically iconic scenery with the Mississippi River crescent and New Orleans cityscape. The landing view is more memorable and unique to this specific route.
What can I see during takeoff from Reno Tahoe International in Reno?
During takeoff from Reno Tahoe International (RNO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left seats offer immediate views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range rising directly west of Reno. The peaks are dramatic and snow-capped (seasonally), providing striking scenery during climb-out. Right seats face the high desert plateau with minimal visual interest. Notable sights include: Sierra Nevada range, Lake Tahoe (visible to the northwest at altitude), Washoe Valley, high desert plateau.
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. Right seats capture the Mississippi River and the New Orleans urban landscape during approach. The river's distinctive meanders and the city's position on the crescent bend are visually striking. Left seats face the Gulf of Mexico and coastal marshlands with less defined features. Notable sights include: Mississippi River with crescent bend, New Orleans city grid, Lake Pontchartrain, coastal wetlands and bayou.
How long is the flight from Reno to New Orleans?
The flight from Reno Tahoe International (RNO) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,789 miles (2,879 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Reno to New Orleans flight path pass over?
Great Salt Lake (Utah), Wasatch Range, Colorado Plateau, Mississippi River valley approaching Louisiana, transition from high desert to Gulf Coast lowlands