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BUF → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (Buffalo) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a potential early view of Niagara Falls and follows a more scenic path across the northern Great Lakes and the St. Croix River valley.
Niagara Falls
Shortly after takeoff from BUF, if the flight path tracks north or west, look out to see the mist and the falls.
Southern Ontario
Bird's eye view of the agricultural landscapes and wind farms of the Canadian peninsula.
Lake St. Clair
The distinctively shaped lake between Lake Erie and Lake Huron is often visible on the northern track.
Wisconsin Northwoods
Lush green forests and thousands of small glacial lakes dotting the landscape of central Wisconsin.
St. Croix River
The scenic, tree-lined border crossing between Wisconsin and Minnesota shortly before landing.
St. Paul Skyline
Depending on the runway approach into MSP, you may get a direct view of the Minnesota State Capitol and downtown St. Paul.
This is the superior side for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the sun. To maximize your chance of seeing Niagara Falls, select a seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view during the initial climb. In winter, the frozen patterns on Lake Michigan and the Wisconsin lakes are particularly striking from this side.
Cleveland Waterfront
Clear views of the Lake Erie shoreline and the downtown skyline including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Southern Lake Erie
Follow the shoreline along the Pennsylvania and Ohio borders for miles of blue water views.
Detroit Metro
Visible to the north-northwest, you can often see the urban density of the Motor City and the Detroit River.
Indiana Dunes
As you approach the southern tip of Lake Michigan, look for the sandy shores of the National Park.
Midwest Patchwork
The intricate geometric patterns of Wisconsin's dairy farms and agricultural heartland.
Mississippi River
A crossing of the great river typically occurs just south of the Twin Cities during the final descent.
Choose this side for sunset views on evening flights as the sun will be positioned to the southwest. On clear days, you may even spot the distant Chicago skyline while crossing the southern basin of Lake Michigan. This side is better for seeing the urban centers of the Rust Belt.
Distance: 1,179 km (733 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: BUF (42.94049835, -78.73220062)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: Domestic
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