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YEG → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Edmonton International Airport (Edmonton) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer vast prairie landscapes, the right side provides a more dramatic approach into the Twin Cities, often featuring the rugged North Dakota Badlands and a better angle of the Minneapolis skyline and the Chain of Lakes.
Distant Rockies
On exceptionally clear days shortly after takeoff, the faint jagged peaks of the Canadian Rockies may be visible on the western horizon.
Regina Cityscape
A view of Saskatchewan's capital city, often appearing as a dense urban island in a sea of farmland.
North Dakota Badlands
Rugged, eroded rock formations and colorful buttes near the Theodore Roosevelt National Park area.
Minneapolis Skyline
Spectacular views of downtown skyscrapers and US Bank Stadium during the standard descent into MSP airport.
The Chain of Lakes
The iconic interconnected urban lakes of Minneapolis, including Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet, visible just before landing.
For the best experience, choose the right side on evening flights to enjoy the sunset over the plains and the golden hour light hitting the Badlands. On approach to MSP, this side typically offers the iconic view of the Minneapolis downtown core. Keep an eye out for the Missouri River crossing, which serves as a major geographical landmark mid-flight.
The North Saskatchewan River
Aerial views of the winding river valley as the flight climbs out of the Edmonton area.
Canadian Patchwork
Infinite geometric patterns of agricultural fields across Saskatchewan, particularly striking during the harvest season.
Lake Sakakawea
The massive reservoir on the Missouri River in central North Dakota, visible as a sprawling blue expanse.
Saint Paul Skyline
On the final approach into MSP, the left side often captures the historic architecture and state capitol of Minnesota's capital.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to witness the sunrise over the vast Canadian prairies. It is also the better side for viewing the Mississippi River's northern bends as you cross from North Dakota into Minnesota. Watch for the 'Land of 10,000 Lakes' transition where the dry plains give way to dense blue pockets of water.
Distance: 1,744 km (1,084 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 20 min
Departure: YEG (53.3097000122, -113.580001831)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: International
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