Loading map...
MSP → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior perspective of the Great Lakes shoreline and the dramatic river convergence at Pittsburgh, along with a more consistent view of the Potomac River during arrival.
Search flights from MSP to IAD
St. Paul Skyline
Immediate views of the Mississippi River and the Minnesota State Capitol shortly after departure from MSP.
Lake Michigan
A massive expanse of blue water visible as the aircraft crosses between Wisconsin and lower Michigan.
Lake Erie Coastline
Gliding along the southern shore of Lake Erie, offering views of coastal towns and industrial ports.
Pittsburgh Confluence
On clear days, see where the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers meet to form the Ohio River.
Potomac River
Aerial views of the winding Potomac River as the flight begins its final descent into Northern Virginia.
Opt for the left side on morning departures to avoid direct southern sunlight. This side is particularly rewarding during the winter when the Great Lakes shorelines show intricate ice patterns. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the best shots of the lush Virginia countryside.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United States
Midwestern Farmland
A patchwork quilt of agricultural fields across Wisconsin and Indiana in varying shades of green and gold.
Chicago Horizon
The distant skyline of Chicago and the Sears Tower can often be spotted across the southern tip of Lake Michigan.
Ohio River Valley
The winding path of the Ohio River as it cuts through the industrial heartland of the United States.
Appalachian Ridges
Stunning linear mountain folds of the Allegheny Mountains visible as you cross West Virginia.
Shenandoah Valley
The verdant valley nestled between the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains during the approach to IAD.
The right side is the best choice for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Appalachian Mountains. Look for the distinct geometric patterns of rural Indiana. If the flight path takes a southerly route, the views of the mountain ridges in West Virginia are significantly more pronounced on this side.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 1,459 km (907 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 57 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.