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MLI → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Quad City International Airport (Moline) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the winding Mississippi River valley, the unique topography of the Driftless Area, and the most iconic views of both the St. Paul and Minneapolis skylines during the approach into MSP.
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Mississippi River Bluffs
Dramatic views of the river's wide channels and the limestone bluffs near Dubuque.
The Driftless Area
Rugged, unglaciated terrain featuring deep valleys and steep hills unusual for the Midwest.
Twin Cities Skyline
Aerial perspective of the Minneapolis skyscrapers and the St. Paul State Capitol building.
Historic Fort Snelling
A bird's-eye view of the star-shaped historic fort at the confluence of the two major rivers.
US Bank Stadium
The striking, translucent roof of the Vikings' stadium is easily visible on the northern approach.
The right side is prime for morning flights to avoid glare. Watch for the 'Driftless Area' about halfway through the flight—the landscape suddenly becomes very hilly. On approach, this side typically provides the best angle for seeing the downtown Minneapolis skyline and the Mississippi-Minnesota river confluence at Fort Snelling.
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Iowa Heartland
Expansive, geometric vistas of high-yield agricultural farmland throughout eastern Iowa.
Minnesota River Valley
Deeply carved river valley and wetlands visible during the final descent into the Twin Cities.
Western Horizon
Unobstructed views of the sunset and evening glow on late afternoon flights.
Cedar Rapids
Distant views of Iowa's second-largest city and its industrial centers to the west.
Choose the left side for evening flights to catch the sunset over the plains. During the final approach to runways 30L/R, you will get an excellent view of the Minnesota River's intricate wetlands and the southern suburbs like Lakeville and Burnsville.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 441 km (274 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 44 min
Departure: MLI (41.44850158691406, -90.50749969482422)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: Domestic
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