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LAN destination photo
MSP destination photo

LANMSP

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the northern Lake Michigan coastline and typically provides a more direct panorama of the Minneapolis skyline during the final descent into MSP.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌲

Michigan Forestlands

The patchwork of agricultural fields and dense woodlands that define the central part of the state.

🏖️

Lake Michigan Bluffs

Striking views of the sandy eastern shoreline and the vast horizon of the Great Lakes.

🦊

Fox River Valley

The urbanized corridor of eastern Wisconsin leading north toward the Green Bay area.

⛵

St. Croix River

A scenic, protected riverway that flows into the Mississippi, marking the border entry into Minnesota.

🏙️

Minneapolis Skyline

The premier angle for viewing the skyscrapers of downtown Minneapolis during the standard approach into MSP.

The right side is the best choice for morning flights to see the sunrise reflect off Lake Michigan. For the best view of downtown Minneapolis, hope for a western landing (Runways 30L or 30R) which aligns the plane perfectly with the skyline.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Grand Rapids Cityscape

A clear view of Michigan's second-largest city shortly after reaching cruising altitude.

🌊

Southern Lake Michigan

Expansive views of the deep blue water and the cargo ships navigating the lake's southern routes.

🏛️

Madison Isthmus

The unique geographical layout of the Wisconsin state capital situated between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.

🛶

Mississippi River Valley

The winding water corridor that serves as the natural border between Wisconsin and Minnesota.

🛍️

Mall of America

A distinct bird's-eye view of the massive retail and entertainment complex just south of the airport.

Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare while crossing the Great Lakes. This side is ideal for spotting the Mall of America during the final seconds of the landing sequence on runways 30L/R.

Top Activities in Minneapolis
Route Information

Distance: 731 km (454 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 13 min

Departure: LAN (42.77870178222656, -84.58740234375)

Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Route Type: Domestic

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