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MSP → FWA
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Fort Wayne International Airport (Fort Wayne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most consistent views of the Mississippi River bluffs, the glacial lakes of southern Wisconsin, and a scenic approach over the southern basin of Lake Michigan towards northern Indiana.
St. Paul Skyline
Excellent views of the Minnesota State Capitol and the downtown St. Paul riverfront immediately after departure.
Mississippi River Valley
Aerial perspective of the dramatic bluffs and winding channels near the Minnesota-Wisconsin border.
The Driftless Area
Unique unglaciated topography featuring deep river valleys and rugged ridges in Southeast Minnesota.
Madison & The Isthmus
Clear views of Lake Mendota and Lake Monona surrounding the Wisconsin State Capitol building.
Lake Michigan Horizon
The vast blue expanse of the Great Lake as the flight crosses near its southern tip.
For morning flights, choose the left side to see the sun rising over the Great Lakes. Look out about 20-25 minutes into the flight for the Mississippi River crossing. If the flight path stays north, you may catch a glimpse of the Milwaukee shoreline.
Mall of America
Located just south of MSP, this massive complex is often visible during the initial climb phase.
Heartland Patchwork
Vibrant green and gold agricultural grids of Iowa and Illinois as you head southeast.
Chicago Skyline
On clear days, the Willis Tower and Chicago's lakefront are visible in the distance to the north.
Industrial Lakefront
The massive steel mills and industrial ports of Gary and Hammond near the Indiana state line.
Fort Wayne Approach
Views of the St. Marys and St. Joseph rivers converging into the Maumee River as you descend.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the midwestern plains. Keep your eyes peeled as you pass Chicago; even from a distance, the skyline is recognizable. Pay attention to the geometric irrigation patterns over the Illinois farm belt.
Distance: 784 km (487 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 18 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: FWA (40.97850037, -85.19509888)
Route Type: Domestic
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