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MSP destination photo
FWA destination photo

MSPFWA

Our Recommendation
7.8

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🛍️

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.

Top Activities in Fort Wayne
Route Information

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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