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ABQ → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Albuquerque International Sunport (Albuquerque) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an immediate, breathtaking view of the Sandia Mountains upon departure and maintains views of the southern Rocky Mountain peaks and the unique Nebraska Sandhills.
Sandia Mountains
Dramatic granite cliffs and the Sandia Crest rising sharply just east of Albuquerque right after takeoff.
Sangre de Cristo Range
The southernmost subrange of the Rocky Mountains, often snow-capped, visible as you cross into Southern Colorado.
Nebraska Sandhills
A vast region of grass-stabilized sand dunes creating a unique, rolling landscape across north-central Nebraska.
Des Moines Skyline
The capital of Iowa and its distinct downtown architecture are often visible during the cruise phase.
Minneapolis Skyline
Depending on the wind and approach path, the skyscrapers of downtown Minneapolis appear during the final descent.
Sit on the left for the best mountain views during the first 30 minutes of the flight. For morning departures, the sun will be behind you, perfectly illuminating the Sandia Mountains and the Rockies. In winter, this side offers the best views of snow-covered peaks in the Sangre de Cristo range.
High Plains Irrigation
Intricate patterns of center-pivot irrigation circles creating a geometric patchwork across the Kansas and Nebraska plains.
Missouri River
The wide, meandering channel of the Missouri River as it marks the border between Nebraska and Iowa.
Iowa Corn Belt
Endless stretches of productive agricultural land that look like a green and gold quilt from 35,000 feet.
Saylorville Lake
A large reservoir on the Des Moines River that serves as a major geographic landmark in central Iowa.
Mississippi River
The iconic waterway visible just before landing, especially if the aircraft approaches MSP from the south or east.
Choose the right side for an afternoon flight to avoid direct glare from the sun. This side is better for observing the transition from the arid Southwest to the lush, water-rich Midwest. Keep an eye out for the large river systems and the symmetry of American industrial farming.
Distance: 1,577 km (980 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 6 min
Departure: ABQ (35.040199, -106.609001)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: Domestic
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