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PSC → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Tri Cities Airport (Pasco) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this eastbound journey because it offers consistent lighting away from the sun's glare and spectacular views of the Palouse, northern Montana wilderness, and the stunning lake-dotted descent into Minnesota.
The Palouse
Shortly after takeoff from PSC, view the rolling, vibrant green and gold wheat hills of eastern Washington.
Bitterroot Mountains
Rugged, snow-capped peaks along the Idaho-Montana border offering dramatic alpine scenery.
Fort Peck Lake
A massive, winding reservoir on the Missouri River that stands out against the Montana plains.
North Dakota Badlands
The striking, eroded rock formations of Theodore Roosevelt National Park visible mid-flight.
Red River Valley
The flat, fertile farmland surrounding the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area.
Minnesota Lake District
Thousands of glacial lakes appear during the descent, showcasing why Minnesota is the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
Sit on the left (Side A/C) to avoid direct sunlight and glare, which is especially important for mid-day flights. This side provides the best view of the 'Big Sky' Montana landscapes and the beautiful transition into the lush Minnesota wetlands. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes after takeoff for the Palouse and 30 minutes before landing for the lakes.
Wallula Gap
A massive water gap through basalt ridges where the Columbia River turns south.
Blue Mountains
Deeply forested ridges of the Umatilla National Forest visible to the south after departure.
Yellowstone Plateau
In the far distance, you can often see the high-altitude terrain of the Yellowstone region.
Black Hills
The dark, forested uplift in South Dakota can be spotted on a clear day south of the flight path.
Missouri River
Multiple crossings of the winding Missouri River as it snakes through the Great Plains.
MSP Skyline
Excellent views of the Minneapolis and St. Paul skyscrapers depending on the landing runway configuration.
The right side (Side D/F) offers views of more famous landmarks like the distant Black Hills, but you will likely deal with significant sun glare for most of the flight. If flying during winter, the snow-covered plains of South Dakota and the Missouri River look particularly geometric and artistic from this side. For the best arrival views, watch for the MSP airport's proximity to the Mississippi River.
Distance: 2,013 km (1,251 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 41 min
Departure: PSC (46.26470184326172, -119.11900329589844)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: Domestic
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