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CVG → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport (Cincinnati) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side typically offers a superior view of the Chicago skyline across Lake Michigan and the best perspective of downtown Minneapolis and the Chain of Lakes during the standard approach into MSP.
Chicago Skyline
On clear days, see the iconic Willis Tower and lakefront skyscrapers as you pass the southern tip of Lake Michigan.
Midwestern Heartland
Expansive views of the neatly gridded farmlands of Indiana and Illinois.
Wisconsin Driftless Area
Observation of the unique, rugged topography of southwestern Wisconsin that escaped glaciation.
Downtown Minneapolis
Sweeping views of the IDS Center, Capella Tower, and U.S. Bank Stadium during the final descent.
Chain of Lakes
Aerial perspective of Lake Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and Lake of the Isles just before landing.
Sit forward of the wing for the best views of the Chicago skyline mid-flight. For evening flights, this side catches the sunset over the rolling Wisconsin hills. On arrival, most flight paths (Runway 30L/R) place the Minneapolis skyline directly out the left window.
Ohio River Valley
Immediate views of the bridges and riverbanks between Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky after takeoff.
Lake Michigan
The vast blue expanse of the lake is visible as the flight tracks north-northwest toward Wisconsin.
Madison Isthmus
Potential views of the Wisconsin State Capitol nestled between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.
St. Croix River
The scenic water border separating Wisconsin and Minnesota shortly before entering the Twin Cities airspace.
St. Paul Skyline
Views of the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the Minnesota State Capitol on the eastern edge of the metro area.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep a lookout for the convergence of the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers about 15 minutes before landing. This side is better if the flight path takes a more easterly route over central Wisconsin.
Distance: 959 km (596 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min
Departure: CVG (39.0488014221, -84.6678009033)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: Domestic
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