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MSP → DAY
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to James M Cox Dayton International Airport (Dayton)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the Madison isthmus, distant views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, and better lighting for morning flights.
St. Paul Skyline
Clear views of the Minnesota State Capitol and the downtown St. Paul riverfront immediately after departure.
Mississippi River Bluffs
The winding river valley and the dramatic limestone bluffs of the Driftless Area during the initial climb.
Madison Isthmus
A stunning view of the Wisconsin State Capitol building situated on the narrow strip of land between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.
Chicago Skyline
On clear days, the Sears (Willis) Tower and the southern curve of Lake Michigan are visible to the south.
Benton County Wind Farms
Massive arrays of wind turbines stretching across the flat agricultural plains of northern Indiana.
Book a window on the left for morning flights to catch the sunrise over the Midwest. About 30 minutes into the flight, look for the 'Isthmus' of Madison. During the descent into Dayton, the left side often sees the dense suburban sprawl and the Great Miami River.
Mall of America
Located directly southwest of MSP, the massive complex is visible shortly after takeoff if departing to the south.
Upper Mississippi Refuge
Expansive views of the wetlands and wildlife refuges along the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin.
O'Hare Corridor
Opportunity to spot high-altitude traffic and the outskirts of the Greater Chicago area from the west.
Agricultural Grid
Perfectly geometric patterns of the American Heartland, displaying vibrant greens and golds depending on the season.
National Museum of the USAF
The massive hangars of the world's oldest and largest military aviation museum are often visible on the final approach to DAY.
The right side is best for evening flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. If the plane lands towards the west at Dayton, you will get an excellent bird's-eye view of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Keep your camera ready for the geometric 'patchwork quilt' of the Indiana and Ohio farmlands.
Distance: 923 km (574 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: DAY (39.90240097045898, -84.21939849853516)
Route Type: Domestic
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