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MSP → CWA
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Central Wisconsin Airport (Wassau)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Mississippi River valley's bluffs early in the flight and provides the most direct angle to see Rib Mountain, the region's most iconic geographic landmark, during the approach to CWA.
Mississippi River Bluffs
Stunning views of the river's wide valley and the limestone bluffs that define the Driftless Area borders.
Rib Mountain
One of the oldest geological formations on earth, appearing as a massive ridge rising above the surrounding plains.
Downtown Wausau
Clear views of the Wausau skyline and the Wisconsin River as the plane banks for its final approach.
Chippewa River Basin
The winding waterways near Eau Claire are visible mid-flight during clear weather conditions.
Winter Snowscapes
In winter, the frozen river tributaries and snow-covered forests create a high-contrast, monochromatic landscape.
The right side is the 'pro choice' for this route specifically to see Rib Mountain, which will appear on the right as you descend toward Mosinee. On morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing perfectly lit landscapes for photography. If the flight path takes a slightly southern trajectory, you may even catch a glimpse of Lake Pepin to the far right.
Twin Cities Skyline
Immediate views of downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul depending on the takeoff runway configuration.
St. Croix River
The scenic, wooded border separating Minnesota and Wisconsin, visible shortly after reaching cruising altitude.
Northwoods Transition
The landscape shifts from urban sprawl to the dense, green canopy of the Wisconsin forest zone.
Wisconsin Heartland
A patchwork of dairy farms and agricultural grids typical of the Upper Midwest region.
Choose the left side for the best departure views of the Minneapolis urban core. This side is particularly scenic during the autumn months when the St. Croix valley turns vibrant shades of orange and red. Because this is a very short flight, keep your window shade up from the moment of pushback to maximize your viewing time.
Distance: 281 km (175 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 28 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: CWA (44.7775993347, -89.6668014526)
Route Type: Domestic
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