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ATW → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Appleton International Airport (Appleton) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most iconic views of the Mississippi River and a better perspective of the downtown Minneapolis skyline during the standard final approach into MSP.
Lake Winnebago & Fox River
Visible immediately after takeoff, this massive freshwater lake and the winding Fox River dominate the landscape east of ATW.
Central Wisconsin Farmland
A patchwork of dairy farms and agricultural fields that change colors dramatically between the green of summer and the gold of harvest.
Mississippi River Crossing
A major geographic highlight where the plane crosses the wide river valley near the border of Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Minneapolis Skyline
Clear views of the Foshay Tower and IDS Center as the aircraft aligns for landing at Minneapolis-St Paul International.
Choose the left side for evening flights to catch the sunset over the western horizon. During the winter, the frozen Mississippi River creates a striking white ribbon through the landscape. For the best view of the Minneapolis skyline, hope for a landing on Runway 30L or 30R.
Green Bay Distant View
On clear days during the initial climb, you can often see the waters of Green Bay and the general direction of Lambeau Field to the northeast.
Chippewa River Valley
Watch for the winding path of the Chippewa River as it cuts through the wooded terrain of West-Central Wisconsin.
St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
The beautiful, forested border between Wisconsin and Minnesota offers a scenic transition into the Twin Cities metro area.
Minnesota Lake Country
As you descend, you will see the beginning of the '10,000 Lakes' with several smaller bodies of water dotting the northern suburbs.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. It offers a quieter, more natural view of the Northwoods transition and the St. Croix River valley. Keep an eye out for the distinct change in topography as you leave the Fox Valley.
Distance: 379 km (235 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: ATW (44.258098602299995, -88.51909637450001)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: Domestic
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