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