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MSP → BIL
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Billings Logan International Airport (Billings)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior perspective of the Missouri River's massive reservoirs and the gradual transition from the lush Minnesota river valleys to the rugged high plains of the Mountain West.
Minnesota River Valley
Lush wetlands and winding river paths immediately following the climb out of MSP.
Prairie Patchwork
Vast agricultural geometry of South Dakota, showcasing the scale of American farming.
Lake Oahe
A massive, winding reservoir on the Missouri River featuring dramatic shorelines and blue water.
Black Hills Silhouette
Distal views of the forested peaks of western South Dakota visible on clear days.
Yellowstone River
A scenic approach following the longest undammed river in the contiguous United States into Billings.
Choose the left side for mid-day flights to keep the sun behind the aircraft, providing better saturation for photography. Keep an eye out approximately 45-50 minutes into the flight for the crossing of the Missouri River, which is the geographic highlight of this route. In winter, the frozen river patterns are particularly striking.
Twin Cities Skyline
Excellent views of downtown Minneapolis and the Mississippi River during the initial departure phase.
Red River Valley
An incredibly flat glacial plain known for some of the most fertile soil in the world.
Badlands Fringes
Rugged, eroded geological formations near the North Dakota-Montana border.
High Plains Wind Farms
Massive clusters of white wind turbines dotting the landscape across the open plains.
The Rimrocks
Prominent sandstone cliffs that define the Billings skyline during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for evening flights, as the setting sun illuminates the Rimrocks and the Montana landscape in a golden hue. If taking off to the north or west, you will get an unparalleled view of the Minneapolis city center and U.S. Bank Stadium. Ensure your window is clean to capture the subtle textures of the North Dakota badlands.
Distance: 1,200 km (746 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: BIL (45.80770111083984, -108.54299926757812)
Route Type: Domestic
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