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RAP → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Rapid City Regional Airport (Rapid City) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side provides the most intimate views of the heart of Badlands National Park shortly after departure and offers a spectacular perspective of the Minnesota River valley during the descent into Minneapolis.
Badlands Heart
Spectacular views of the rugged, multi-colored spires and deep canyons of the Badlands' southern units.
Missouri River
A direct view of the wide, winding river and Lake Sharpe near the midpoint of the flight.
Agricultural Grids
The mesmerizing geometric patterns of South Dakota's expansive corn and wheat fields.
Minnesota River Valley
The lush, winding valley that carves through the landscape as you approach the Twin Cities.
Mall of America
The massive retail complex and Nickelodeon Universe are often visible just before touchdown at MSP.
The right side is essential for the best Badlands photography; the morning light highlights the sediment layers beautifully. Look out the window approximately 10-15 minutes after departure from RAP. During the final 5 minutes of the flight, watch for the massive Mall of America complex near the airport perimeter.
Black Hills Receding
A final glance at the dark, pine-covered peaks of the Black Hills as the aircraft climbs and turns eastward.
Badlands North Rim
Views of the 'Wall' formations where the upper prairie drops into the eroded canyons of the National Park.
Lake Oahe
The massive, sprawling reservoir on the Missouri River north of Pierre, South Dakota.
Glacial Lake District
As you enter Minnesota, the landscape transforms into a mosaic of thousands of small glacial lakes.
Minneapolis Skyline
Clear views of the IDS Center and the downtown Minneapolis cluster during a standard approach from the west.
Choose the left side for evening flights to avoid direct glare from the southern sun. This side is also superior for viewing the downtown Minneapolis skyline if the aircraft approaches MSP from the west or north. Keep your camera ready about 10 minutes after takeoff for the sharpest Badlands contrasts.
Distance: 786 km (488 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min
Departure: RAP (44.0452995300293, -103.05699920654295)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: Domestic
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