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CUN → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Cancún International Airport (Cancun) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side wins primarily due to the spectacular departure views of the Yucatan coastline, the Cancun Hotel Zone, and the turquoise Caribbean waters, combined with a high probability of seeing the Twin Cities skyline on approach.
Cancun Hotel Zone
The famous '7' shaped strip of white sand and luxury resorts surrounded by turquoise water and the Nichupté Lagoon.
Isla Mujeres
A bird's-eye view of this narrow island just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula during initial ascent.
Gulf Navigation
Spot large cargo ships and tankers navigating the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Tennessee River Valley
Sweeping views of the Tennessee and Cumberland river systems through Kentucky and Tennessee.
Minneapolis Skyline
Depending on the wind-dictated landing pattern, you may get a direct view of downtown Minneapolis or the Mall of America.
The right side is essential for the first 10 minutes of the flight to see the Caribbean coastline. On arrival into MSP, if landing on Runway 30R, the right side often gets a perfect view of the downtown skyscrapers and the U.S. Bank Stadium. Use a morning flight for the best lighting on the Mexican coast.
Mississippi River Delta
View the intricate fractal patterns of the marshlands where the massive river system meets the Gulf of Mexico.
Ozark Mountains
Dense forest canopies and rolling highlands visible as you traverse southern Missouri.
St. Louis Skyline
Look for the iconic Gateway Arch glinting near the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers.
The Corn Belt
A vast geometric patchwork of agricultural fields across Iowa, highlighting the heart of American farming.
Minnesota Lake Country
As the plane descends, hundreds of small glacial lakes begin to dot the landscape north of the Iowa border.
The left side is superior for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the setting sun. It offers better views of the Mississippi River's winding path through the mid-continent. Watch for the transition from the humid subtropics to the northern plains.
Distance: 2,715 km (1,687 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 37 min
Departure: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: International
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