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YVR → MSP
Which side of the plane to sit from Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver) to Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is the winner for this route as it offers the most dramatic views of the northern wilderness, including the rugged peaks of the Canadian Rockies border and the stunning expanse of Glacier National Park in Montana.
North Shore Mountains
Dramatic views of the snowy peaks and fjords bordering Vancouver immediately after takeoff.
Glacier National Park
As the flight tracks southeast, you will pass the 'Crown of the Continent' with views of Montana's jagged peaks and alpine lakes.
Kootenay Rockies
Dense evergreen forests and steep river valleys of southeastern British Columbia.
Lake Sakakawea
A massive, deep-blue reservoir winding through the North Dakota plains, creating a striking contrast with the land.
Twin Cities Skyline
The left side typically offers a superior view of the downtown Minneapolis skyscrapers during the final approach.
Sit on the left to avoid the direct glare of the sun, which will be on the southern (right) side of the aircraft for most of the journey. This side is also the best bet for spotting the Aurora Borealis if you are flying on a late-night flight during periods of high solar activity.
Mount Baker
The glaciated volcanic peak in Washington State is highly visible shortly after departing Vancouver.
Columbia Plateau
The arid, high-desert landscape of the inland Northwest, featuring unique geological basalt formations.
Midwestern Grids
The fascinating geometric precision of the Great Plains' agricultural 'quilt' patterns as you cross the Dakotas.
Mississippi River
The historic, winding waterway that marks the final approach into the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area.
The right side is ideal for morning flights if you want to see the sunrise over the plains, though it can be quite bright. It provides the best perspective of Mount Baker and the southern 'Badlands' regions of the Dakotas if the flight path tracks further south.
Distance: 2,305 km (1,432 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 4 min
Departure: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Arrival: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Route Type: International
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