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XNA destination photo
MSP destination photo

XNAMSP

Our Recommendation
7.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the winding Missouri River, the transition from the rugged Ozark Plateau to the Iowa plains, and a better angle of the St. Paul skyline upon approach to MSP.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🛶

Table Rock Lake

The sprawling, finger-like shorelines of this major Ozark reservoir are visible shortly after departure from XNA.

🏛️

Jefferson City

A potential glimpse of the Missouri State Capitol building perched above the Missouri River.

🌊

Missouri River Crossing

The wide, silty waters of 'The Big Muddy' cutting a path through the agricultural heartland.

🏙️

St. Paul Skyline

The historic capital city of Minnesota and the Cathedral of Saint Paul are prominent during the descent.

🛍️

Mall of America

The massive footprint of the largest shopping mall in the US is clearly visible just south of the airport boundary.

Sit on the right for the best views of the Ozark lakes early in the flight. As you approach MSP, keep your eyes peeled for the Mall of America and the distinct St. Paul skyline. Morning flights provide the best lighting for these landmarks.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🌳

Ozark National Forest

Dense, rolling green hills of Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri visible immediately after takeoff.

🏙️

Des Moines Skyline

The capital of Iowa and its distinct downtown area often appear mid-flight depending on the specific air corridor.

🌬️

Iowa Wind Farms

Massive clusters of white wind turbines dotting the flat agricultural landscape of Northern Iowa.

🏙️

Minneapolis Skyline

Dramatic views of the Minneapolis skyscrapers and the U.S. Bank Stadium during standard landings from the south.

🌊

Minnesota River

The winding river valley and Fort Snelling state park area just seconds before touchdown.

Choose the left side for sunset flights to enjoy the glow over the Great Plains. During the approach to MSP, this side is typically better for seeing the taller Minneapolis skyline, especially if the aircraft is landing on the 30 runways.

Top Activities in Minneapolis
Route Information

Distance: 961 km (597 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min

Departure: XNA (36.281898, -94.306801)

Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)

Route Type: Domestic

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