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RIC destination photo
MSP destination photo

RICMSP

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior angle for viewing the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains shortly after takeoff and provides a direct view of the Mississippi River bluffs during the final approach into the Twin Cities.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛰️

Blue Ridge Mountains

Iconic blue-hued ridges and the Shenandoah Valley visible shortly after departure from Richmond.

🌊

Ohio River Valley

Dramatic views of the winding river as it snakes through the border regions of West Virginia and Ohio.

🏙️

Indianapolis Metro

A clear view of the sprawling 'Crossroads of America' and its distinct radial city planning.

🚜

Heartland Patchwork

Perfectly geometric agricultural grids of Illinois and Iowa creating a colorful seasonal mosaic.

💧

Upper Mississippi River

Stunning views of the river's wide channels and wooded islands during the descent into MSP.

Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the Appalachian peaks. Watch for the confluence of the Ohio and Great Miami rivers mid-flight. During winter, this side offers the best views of the frozen river patterns near the destination.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

Appalachian Plateau

Deeply dissected valleys and dense forest canopy of the northern West Virginia wilderness.

🏙️

Columbus Skyline

Views of Ohio's capital city and the Scioto River located just north of the flight path.

⛵

Lake Michigan

Distant but clear views of the deep blue waters of the southern Great Lakes region.

🏜️

Wisconsin Driftless Area

Unique, rugged terrain that escaped glacial flattening, featuring steep ridges and deep coulees.

🏙️

Minneapolis Skyline

Prime views of the IDS Center and downtown skyscrapers if landing on Runways 12L or 12R.

Excellent for late afternoon flights to witness the sunset reflecting off the small lakes in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Keep your camera ready as you cross the St. Croix River, which marks the border into Minnesota.

Top Activities in Minneapolis
Route Information

Distance: 1,559 km (969 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 5 min

Departure: RIC (37.50519943237305, -77.3197021484375)

Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Route Type: Domestic

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