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MSP → CID
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to The Eastern Iowa Airport (Cedar Rapids)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the winding Mississippi River valley and the St. Paul skyline during departure, plus the unique topography of the Driftless Area.
Search flights from MSP to CID
St. Paul Skyline
Direct views of the Minnesota State Capitol and downtown St. Paul shortly after takeoff from MSP.
Mississippi River
Follow the curves of the Great River Road and the river's numerous islands and backwaters.
Rochester & Mayo Clinic
The prominent buildings of the world-famous Mayo Clinic are visible when passing over SE Minnesota.
Driftless Area
Watch the flat plains transition into the deeply carved valleys and ridges of northeast Iowa.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is optimal for seeing the Mississippi River valley, which is the most prominent geographic feature on this short hop. Keep your camera ready immediately after wheels up for the best city shots.
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Minneapolis Skyline
Excellent views of the skyscrapers and U.S. Bank Stadium if the plane departs to the south.
Mall of America
The massive footprint of the nation's largest mall is visible just seconds after departing MSP.
Wind Farms
Massive arrays of wind turbines dot the agricultural landscape along the Minnesota-Iowa border.
Iowa Heartland
A perfect grid of vibrant green and gold fields stretching to the horizon as you descend into Cedar Rapids.
Choose the right side for sunset flights to catch the glow over the western horizon. This side provides a better look at the Minneapolis side of the Twin Cities and the sheer scale of the agricultural patterns that define the Midwest. It is also better for spotting the Mall of America.
Book Hotels in Cedar RapidsDistance: 355 km (221 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 36 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: CID (41.88470077514648, -91.71080017089844)
Route Type: Domestic
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