While takeoff favors the right, landing provides superior views of Austin's most recognizable features. Since landing typically offers more sustained viewing time during descent, left side wins overall for this route.
Flown AUS to MSP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Austin to Minneapolis is 1,043 miles (1,678 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Oklahoma, passing east of the Wichita Mountains (visible as a low ridge around 35°N, 98.5°W), then continues northeast across the Red River valley and into southern Kansas before turning toward Minnesota. The terrain transitions from Texas Hill Country through rolling prairie to the flatter Great Plains. Lake Texoma (Texas-Oklahoma border) may be visible on the southern portion of the route if flying at lower altitudes during climb-out. The Arkansas River valley becomes visible in southern Kansas during cruise. No major mountain ranges obstruct the route; the landscape is predominantly agricultural with scattered lakes and river valleys.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from AUS
RIGHTAUS typically departs runways 17L/R or 35L/R. Right-side seats offer views of downtown Austin and Lady Bird Lake during initial climb, with the Colorado River visible snaking through the city. Left side faces open terrain with fewer distinctive features.
Landing at MSP
LEFTApproach to AUS typically comes from the north on runways 17L/R. Left-side seats provide views of the Colorado River valley, downtown Austin, and Lady Bird Lake during descent. Right side faces open Hill Country terrain with less visual interest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Austin to Minneapolis. While takeoff favors the right, landing provides superior views of Austin's most recognizable features. Since landing typically offers more sustained viewing time during descent, left side wins overall for this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Austin Bergstrom International in Austin?
During takeoff from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS), sit on the Right side for the best views. AUS typically departs runways 17L/R or 35L/R. Right-side seats offer views of downtown Austin and Lady Bird Lake during initial climb, with the Colorado River visible snaking through the city. Left side faces open terrain with fewer distinctive features. Notable sights include: Downtown Austin skyline, Lady Bird Lake (Colorado River), Barton Springs area, Hill Country terrain rising to the west.
What can I see when landing at Minneapolis St Paul International in Minneapolis?
When landing at Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Approach to AUS typically comes from the north on runways 17L/R. Left-side seats provide views of the Colorado River valley, downtown Austin, and Lady Bird Lake during descent. Right side faces open Hill Country terrain with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Lady Bird Lake, downtown Austin, Colorado River valley, Zilker Park area.
How long is the flight from Austin to Minneapolis?
The flight from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,043 miles (1,678 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Austin to Minneapolis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Oklahoma, passing east of the Wichita Mountains (visible as a low ridge around 35°N, 98.5°W), then continues northeast across the Red River valley and into southern Kansas before turning toward Minnesota. The terrain transitions from Texas Hill Country through rolling prairie to the flatter Great Plains. Lake Texoma (Texas-Oklahoma border) may be visible on the southern portion of the route if flying at lower altitudes during climb-out. The Arkansas River valley becomes visible in southern Kansas during cruise. No major mountain ranges obstruct the route; the landscape is predominantly agricultural with scattered lakes and river valleys.