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MSP → BWI
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (Baltimore)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the Chicago skyline, the unique geological folds of the Appalachian mountains, and a potential glimpse of the D.C. skyline during the descent.
Minneapolis Skyline
Immediate views of downtown Minneapolis and the U.S. Bank Stadium shortly after takeoff from MSP.
Chicago Skyline
Distant but recognizable views of the Willis Tower and the dense downtown Chicago lakefront to the south.
Appalachian Ridges
The striking Ridge-and-Valley province of Pennsylvania, featuring dramatic parallel mountain folds visible from cruising altitude.
D.C. Landmarks
On clear days during the descent, the Washington Monument and Capitol Building may be visible on the southern horizon.
Chesapeake Bay
Sweeping views of the massive estuary and its complex network of inlets and bridges as you enter Maryland airspace.
The right side is the 'landmark side' for this route. It is essential for those wanting to see the distinctive mountain geography of the East Coast. For sunset flights, this side offers dramatic lighting over the Appalachian ridges, though you should bring sunglasses for the midday glare.
Lake Michigan Expanse
Gaze across the vast blue waters of Lake Michigan as the flight crosses from Wisconsin toward the Indiana coastline.
Agricultural Patchwork
Vibrant green and gold geometric patterns of the fertile Midwestern farms across northern Ohio and Indiana.
Susquehanna River
Visible as a wide, winding ribbon cutting through the Pennsylvania landscape roughly 25 minutes before arrival.
Baltimore Urban Landscape
Views of the industrial outskirts and northern neighborhoods of Baltimore as the plane maneuvers for final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. This side provides the best perspective of the Great Lakes and the northern reach of the Appalachian forest. It is also generally quieter for photography due to less sun glare.
Distance: 1,504 km (935 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)
Route Type: Domestic
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