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MSP → CVG
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport (Cincinnati)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the Madison isthmus, the southern tip of Lake Michigan, and the iconic Cincinnati skyline and riverfront during the approach into CVG.
St. Paul Skyline
Visible shortly after takeoff from MSP, providing a clear view of the Minnesota State Capitol and the Cathedral of Saint Paul.
Madison Isthmus
Wisconsin's capital is beautifully framed between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, appearing about 30-40 minutes into the flight.
Lake Michigan
On clear days, the vast blue horizon of the Great Lakes is visible to the east as the plane transits northern Illinois and Indiana.
Downtown Cincinnati
Exceptional views of the Great American Ball Park, Paycor Stadium, and the high-rises along the Ohio River during the descent.
St. Croix River
The picturesque border between Minnesota and Wisconsin, marked by steep bluffs and wooded islands.
Book a window seat forward of the wing for unobstructed views of the Madison lakes. For morning flights, the sun will be on the opposite side, providing excellent lighting for photos of the Cincinnati riverfront. If CVG is landing to the north, the left side typically gets a panoramic view of the city during the base leg turn.
Minneapolis Core
Look for the US Bank Stadium and the distinctive IDS Center if the flight departs using the 12L or 17 runways.
Driftless Area
Witness the unique, rugged topography of southwestern Wisconsin that escaped glacial flattening during the last ice age.
Indiana Farmlands
A classic Midwestern patchwork quilt of fields and rural townships stretching toward the horizon.
Indianapolis Perimeter
The flight path often passes to the east of Indy, allowing for a distant view of the city's urban sprawl to the west.
Ohio River Bends
Observe the heavy barge traffic and the deep, winding industrial curves of the river as you enter Kentucky airspace.
The right side is the 'sunset side' for evening flights, offering warm golden hour light over the plains. Keep an eye out for the Mississippi River following the flight path to the west during the first 20 minutes of the journey. This side is also better for spotting the suburban sprawl of Northern Kentucky just before touchdown.
Distance: 959 km (596 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: CVG (39.0488014221, -84.6678009033)
Route Type: Domestic
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