Right-side seats win for both departure and arrival, offering continuous views of the Mississippi River system—from Memphis's dramatic river curves through the floodplain on takeoff, to the Minnesota River valley and river confluence on approach into Minneapolis.
Flown MEM to MSP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Memphis to Minneapolis is 701 miles (1,128 km), a flight of about 2 hours 5 minutes.
Illinois-Missouri border region with Mississippi River meanders, Iowa farmland and river valleys, Wisconsin transition zone with increasing lakes and forests, Minnesota River valley approaching Minneapolis
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MEM
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Mississippi River as it curves through Memphis and the surrounding floodplain. The river is the dominant geographic feature on departure and remains visible for several minutes during climb-out heading north.
Landing at MSP
RIGHTRight-side seats provide excellent views of the Minnesota River valley and the Mississippi River confluence as the aircraft descends into Minneapolis. These two major rivers converge just south of the Twin Cities and are highly visible during final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Memphis International (MEM) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Memphis to Minneapolis. Right-side seats win for both departure and arrival, offering continuous views of the Mississippi River system—from Memphis's dramatic river curves through the floodplain on takeoff, to the Minnesota River valley and river confluence on approach into Minneapolis.
What can I see during takeoff from Memphis International in Memphis?
During takeoff from Memphis International (MEM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Mississippi River as it curves through Memphis and the surrounding floodplain. The river is the dominant geographic feature on departure and remains visible for several minutes during climb-out heading north. Notable sights include: Mississippi River, Memphis urban area, Wolf River confluence, Tennessee-Arkansas border region.
What can I see when landing at Minneapolis St Paul International in Minneapolis?
When landing at Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats provide excellent views of the Minnesota River valley and the Mississippi River confluence as the aircraft descends into Minneapolis. These two major rivers converge just south of the Twin Cities and are highly visible during final approach. Notable sights include: Minnesota River valley, Mississippi River, Twin Cities urban area, Minnesota River-Mississippi River confluence.
How long is the flight from Memphis to Minneapolis?
The flight from Memphis International (MEM) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) takes about 2 hours 5 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 701 miles (1,128 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Memphis to Minneapolis flight path pass over?
Illinois-Missouri border region with Mississippi River meanders, Iowa farmland and river valleys, Wisconsin transition zone with increasing lakes and forests, Minnesota River valley approaching Minneapolis