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BIL → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Billings Logan International Airport (Billings) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a consistent display of the Northern Great Plains landscape, including the massive Lake Sakakawea and the transition into the lake-rich regions of Minnesota.
Lake Sakakawea
A massive reservoir on the Missouri River in North Dakota, showcasing winding shorelines and bright blue waters.
Bismarck and Mandan
Aerial views of the North Dakota state capital and the iconic Missouri River bridges crossing between the twin cities.
Minnesota Lake District
As the plane enters Minnesota, the landscape transforms into a patchwork of thousands of glacial lakes and forests.
Downtown St. Paul
On the final approach into MSP, look for the Cathedral of St. Paul and the historic riverfront area.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and avoid glare. This side is particularly scenic during the fall when the Minnesota forests turn vibrant colors. Watch for the Garrison Dam as you cross the Missouri River roughly halfway through the flight.
Bighorn Mountains
Distant views to the south of the rugged Bighorn range rising sharply from the Montana high plains.
Badlands Formations
Rugged, eroded landscape features and buttes visible near the border of Montana and the Dakotas.
Mall of America
A clear view of one of the world's largest shopping complexes just moments before touching down at MSP.
Minnesota River Valley
Lush green valleys and winding river paths that define the southern approach to the Twin Cities region.
The right side is excellent for afternoon or evening flights to capture the sunset over the plains. Keep a lookout for the sprawling agriculture of the Red River Valley. Sit behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the Mall of America during the final descent and landing gear extension.
Distance: 1,200 km (746 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min
Departure: BIL (45.80770111083984, -108.54299926757812)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: Domestic
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