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MSP → CDG
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is superior primarily for the high probability of viewing the Aurora Borealis during the overnight transatlantic crossing and potential views of the Greenland ice cap.
Minneapolis Skyline
Aerial view of the downtown Minneapolis skyscrapers and the U.S. Bank Stadium shortly after departure.
Lake Superior North Shore
Dramatic rugged coastlines and deep blue waters of the largest Great Lake as you head northeast.
Quebec Boreal Forest
Vast, untouched stretches of Canadian wilderness filled with thousands of small glacial lakes.
Greenland Ice Sheet
On northern-latitude tracks, spectacular views of massive glaciers and floating icebergs near the coast.
Aurora Borealis
The best side for spotting the Northern Lights during the dark hours of the flight over the North Atlantic.
Northern UK Terrain
Rolling green hills of Northern Ireland or Scotland depending on the specific Great Circle track.
Choose the left side and keep your window shade up during the middle of the flight; use a blanket to cover your head and the window to block cabin light for the best Aurora viewing. The Greenland views are most spectacular during the 'blue hour' just before the sun fully rises.
St. Paul Cathedral
Detailed views of the Minnesota State Capitol and the historic architecture of downtown St. Paul.
St. Lawrence River
The massive maritime gateway connecting the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, often visible near Montreal.
Atlantic Sunset
Unobstructed views of the sun setting behind the aircraft as you begin the ocean crossing.
Irish Coastline
First landfall featuring the patchworked green fields and steep cliffs of Southern Ireland.
English Channel
Heavy maritime traffic and cargo ships navigating the narrow strait between the UK and France.
Paris Cityscape
On many approaches to CDG, the right side offers a distant but clear view of the Eiffel Tower and the city center.
The right side is ideal for those who enjoy watching the sunrise over the horizon as you approach Europe. During descent into CDG, the right side frequently provides a more iconic view of the Parisian urban sprawl and landmarks if the plane circles from the south.
Distance: 6,775 km (4,210 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 58 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Route Type: International
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