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MSP destination photo
ABQ destination photo

MSPABQ

Our Recommendation
8.7

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

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.

Top Activities in Albuquerque
Route Information

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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