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MSP destination photo
BDL destination photo

MSPBDL

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Great Lakes and the striking glacial geography of the Finger Lakes region of New York.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Mississippi River

Aerial views of the river's winding channels and floodplains immediately after departure from MSP.

🛶

Lake Michigan

A long crossing over the deep blue waters of the lake, often offering views of the Michigan coastline.

💦

Niagara Falls

On clear days with a northerly routing, the falls and rising mist can be spotted in the distance to the north.

💎

Finger Lakes

Exceptional views of the long, narrow glacial lakes of Upstate New York, particularly Cayuga and Seneca.

🌲

The Berkshires

The lush, rolling green hills of western Massachusetts as the aircraft begins its final descent into Windsor Locks.

Choose the left side for daytime flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare, ensuring better conditions for photography. Keep a close watch approximately 80 minutes into the flight for the distinctive vertical shapes of the Finger Lakes. In October, this side offers the best perspective for viewing the vibrant New England fall foliage during the descent.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
⛵

Lake Erie

Views of the southern shoreline and busy shipping lanes near Cleveland and Erie, Pennsylvania.

🏙️

Buffalo Skyline

The urban core and historic waterfront architecture at the eastern terminus of Lake Erie.

⛰️

Catskill Mountains

The rugged blue ridges of the Catskill range are often visible to the south during the transit of New York State.

🚤

Hudson River Valley

A prominent crossing of the historic Hudson River, usually occurring near the Albany area.

🏠

Connecticut River

Broad views of the river valley and the rural landscapes of northern Connecticut during the final approach.

The right side is ideal for travelers on late afternoon or evening flights who wish to see the sunset over the trailing wing. During the winter months, look for extensive ice coverage on the southern banks of the Great Lakes. This side often provides a better view of the downtown Hartford skyline if the flight approaches BDL from the south.

Top Activities in Windsor Locks
Route Information

Distance: 1,686 km (1,048 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 15 min

Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Arrival: BDL (41.9388999939, -72.68319702149999)

Route Type: Domestic

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