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MSP destination photo
LNK destination photo

MSPLNK

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more diverse mix of urban landmarks and natural features, including the Twin Cities skyline on departure, the Missouri River at Omaha, and the iconic Nebraska State Capitol during the descent into Lincoln.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Twin Cities Skyline

Spectacular aerial views of the Minneapolis and St. Paul downtown areas shortly after rotation from MSP.

🛍️

Mall of America

Look down immediately after takeoff to spot the massive shopping complex located just south of the airport.

🌾

Iowa Heartland

Expansive geometric patterns of agricultural fields and wind farms stretching across the Iowa landscape.

🌆

Omaha Metro

Clear views of the Missouri River waterfront and the First National Bank Tower as you transition into Nebraska.

🏛️

Nebraska State Capitol

The 'Tower of the Plains' is frequently visible on the left side during the final approach patterns into LNK.

Optimal for morning flights as the sun remains on the opposite side, reducing glare. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff for the Mall of America. During the landing phase, the left side usually provides the best orientation for viewing the Lincoln city center and its landmark capitol building.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Minnesota River Valley

Scenic winding river and lush wetlands stretching westward from the MSP airport area.

🎓

Mankato Region

Views of the sharp Minnesota River bend and the sprawling campus of Minnesota State University.

⛵

Okoboji & Spirit Lake

A glimpse of the blue waters of Northwest Iowa's famous glacial lake region during the mid-flight cruise.

🌉

Missouri River Crossing

The natural border between Iowa and Nebraska, marked by dramatic bluffs and industrial infrastructure near Sioux City.

🌾

Platte River Valley

Witness the unique braided river system and intricate sandbars that characterize the Nebraska landscape before landing.

Choose this side for late afternoon or evening flights to witness the sunset over the Great Plains. Watch for the 'Great Bend' in the Minnesota River near Mankato early in the flight. In winter, this side offers striking views of the snow-dusted Platte River channels.

Top Activities in Lincoln
Route Information

Distance: 533 km (331 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 53 min

Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Arrival: LNK (40.85100173950195, -96.75920104980467)

Route Type: Domestic

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