MSP → BMI

Mississippi River Valley

Visible shortly after takeoff from MSP, look for the wide bluffs and braided channels forming the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The Driftless Area

Glimpse the unique unglaciated terrain of SE Minnesota and NE Iowa, characterized by deep river valleys and high ridges.

Dubuque & Tri-State View

As the flight crosses into the corner of Iowa, you can often spot the bridges and historic architecture of Dubuque along the riverbanks.

Illinois River Meanders

Watch for the dramatic curves and floodplains of the Illinois River as the aircraft begins its initial descent into the Central Illinois region.

Illinois State University

During the final approach into BMI, the left side typically offers a clear view of the ISU campus and the 'Watterson Towers' in Normal.

Minnesota Prairies

A bird's-eye view of the expansive agricultural patchwork of southern Minnesota, showing the transition to the Corn Belt.

Cedar Rapids/Iowa City

Depending on the specific flight path, you may see the urban clusters of eastern Iowa in the distance to the west.

The Quad Cities

Look for the dense urban area of Rock Island and Moline where the Mississippi River flows east-to-west.

McLean County Wind Farms

Visible during descent, look for the massive arrays of white wind turbines that dot the landscape north of Bloomington.

BMI Runway Approach

The right side offers a broad view of the central Illinois flatlands and the gridded road network surrounding the airport.