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MSP → ABQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Albuquerque International Sunport (Albuquerque)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a premier view of the transition from the Great Plains to the Rocky Mountains, culminating in a spectacular descent past the Sandia Mountains into Albuquerque.
Twin Cities
Aerial views of Minneapolis and St. Paul skyline shortly after departure from MSP.
Heartland Patchwork
Intricate geometric agricultural patterns across the fertile fields of Iowa and Nebraska.
Platte River
The wide, braided channels of the Platte River winding through the Nebraska landscape.
Sangre de Cristo Mountains
The dramatic southern peaks of the Rocky Mountains as the flight enters New Mexico.
Santa Fe
The unique adobe architecture and high-altitude layout of the New Mexico state capital.
Sandia Mountains
Stunning views of the 10,000-foot peaks and limestone cliffs during the final approach.
Choose a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid direct glare while seeing the mountain ranges beautifully illuminated. Watch for the sharp contrast between the green irrigated circles of the plains and the red earth of New Mexico.
Missouri River
Crossing the expansive Missouri River near the border of Iowa and Nebraska.
Nebraska Sandhills
The rare and beautiful grass-stabilized sand dunes covering north-central Nebraska.
Wind Farms
Massive clusters of wind turbines visible across the flat horizons of western Kansas.
Capulin Volcano
A distinct, perfectly preserved extinct cinder cone volcano in the northeast corner of New Mexico.
Turquoise Trail
The scenic highlands and historic mining areas located just north of Albuquerque.
Rio Grande
The legendary river cutting a deep path through the desert floor north of the city.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to witness the vibrant desert sunsets. Keep an eye out for the distinct cone of Capulin Volcano about 30-40 minutes before landing.
Distance: 1,577 km (980 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 6 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: ABQ (35.040199, -106.609001)
Route Type: Domestic
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