A variable area nozzle assembly (46) for a gas turbine engine includes a fixed structure (48) surrounding an exhaust duct extending along a nozzle centerline. The fixed structure (48) further includes a first lateral side (62) and a second lateral side (64) opposite the first lateral side (62). The variable area nozzle assembly (46) further includes a nozzle (54). The nozzle (54) includes a nozzle outlet (119) including a nozzle outlet cross-sectional area. The variable area nozzle assembly (46) further includes a thrust reverser system (132) including a first thrust reverser door (134) and a second thrust reverser door (136). The first thrust reverser door (134) is pivotably mounted to the fixed structure (48) at the first lateral side (62). The second thrust reverser door (136) is pivotably mounted to the fixed structure (48) at the second lateral side (64). The first thrust reverser door (134) and the second thrust reverser door (136) define a portion of the nozzle outlet (119) of the nozzle.