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MSP → APN
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Alpena County Regional Airport (Alpena)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Door County archipelago and the northern reaches of Lake Michigan, providing a scenic transition from the forests of Wisconsin to the coastal beauty of Alpena.
St. Paul Skyline
Upon departure, enjoy views of the Mississippi River and the downtown skyline of Minnesota's capital city.
St. Croix River
Observe the winding waterway that forms the natural border between Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Nicolet National Forest
Fly over vast stretches of dense pine and hardwood forests across central and northern Wisconsin.
Door County Islands
Clear views of Washington Island and the northern tip of the Door Peninsula as you transition over water.
Lake Michigan Crossing
A brief but beautiful span of deep blue water before reaching the Michigan coastline.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. This side is also excellent for spotting the remote lighthouses scattered throughout the Green Bay and Door County region during the descent.
Minneapolis Skyline
Catch a glimpse of the skyscrapers and U.S. Bank Stadium shortly after takeoff from MSP.
Wisconsin Farmlands
A patchwork of agricultural fields and glacial kettle lakes across the dairy state.
Lake Winnebago
Depending on the specific flight path, you may see Wisconsin's largest inland lake to the south.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
Look for the massive sand dunes along the western Michigan coastline as you cross Lake Michigan.
Thunder Bay Arrival
Enjoy the approach into Alpena over the limestone-rich waters of Thunder Bay on Lake Huron.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind you, providing optimal lighting for photos of the Michigan coastline. Watch for the dramatic color change in the water near Alpena's shallow bays.
Distance: 760 km (472 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 16 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: APN (45.07809829999999, -83.56030273)
Route Type: Domestic
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