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MSP → PSC
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Tri Cities Airport (Pasco)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the iconic Black Hills of South Dakota and the dramatic Bighorn Mountains, concluding with a scenic approach over the Snake River confluence.
Twin Cities & Mississippi
Immediate views of the Mississippi River and the urban sprawl of Minneapolis and St. Paul during takeoff.
Badlands National Park
Distinctive eroded buttes and pinnacles visible as the flight crosses into western South Dakota.
The Black Hills
The dark, forested silhouettes of the Black Hills and Harney Peak rising sharply from the Great Plains.
Bighorn Mountains
Snow-capped peaks of the Bighorn Range in Wyoming provide a stunning mid-flight alpine panorama.
The Palouse
The rolling, vibrant green and gold wheat fields of the Palouse region visible during the descent.
Snake River Confluence
A clear view of the Snake River joining the Columbia River just before landing at Tri-Cities.
Sit on the left for the best mountain views, but be aware that on morning flights, the sun will be on this side, potentially causing glare. This side is unbeatable during sunset flights as the light hits the rock formations of the Badlands and the Rockies. Look for the distant peaks of the Tetons if the flight path tracks slightly south.
Land of 10,000 Lakes
A spectacular mosaic of glacial lakes stretching across central and western Minnesota.
Missouri River
The massive, winding silver ribbon of the Missouri River cutting through the Dakotas.
Bitterroot National Forest
Dense, endless evergreen forests and jagged ridges as you cross the Montana-Idaho border.
Cabinet Mountains
Glaciated peaks and high alpine lakes visible in the distance toward the Canadian border.
Columbia Plateau
The dramatic transition from forest to the arid, volcanic landscape of the high desert basin.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. It offers a great perspective of the Missouri River and the northern reaches of the Rockies. During the final approach into Pasco, you can often see the white peaks of the North Cascades on the distant horizon if the air is clear.
Distance: 2,013 km (1,251 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 41 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: PSC (46.26470184326172, -119.11900329589844)
Route Type: Domestic
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