While the right side offers the initial prairie scenery during takeoff, the left side provides superior views during the approach and landing, including the Minnesota River valley and the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area—the most visually interesting portion of the flight.
Flown MOT to MSP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Minot to Minneapolis is 448 miles (721 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Minnesota, passing over agricultural land, small lakes scattered throughout the region (particularly visible in central Minnesota), and the gradual transition from the flat prairie of North Dakota into the slightly more varied terrain of Minnesota. The Minnesota River valley becomes increasingly prominent as you approach the Twin Cities.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MOT
RIGHTMinot sits on the Mouse River in north-central North Dakota. Climbing eastbound toward Minneapolis, the right side offers views of the river valley and the gradual transition from prairie to slightly more rolling terrain as you head toward Minnesota.
Landing at MSP
LEFTApproaching Minneapolis-St. Paul from the northwest, the left side provides views of the Minnesota River valley and the Twin Cities' urban sprawl as you descend. You'll see the transition from agricultural land into the metropolitan area.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Minot International (MOT) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Minot to Minneapolis. While the right side offers the initial prairie scenery during takeoff, the left side provides superior views during the approach and landing, including the Minnesota River valley and the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area—the most visually interesting portion of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Minot International in Minot?
During takeoff from Minot International (MOT), sit on the Right side for the best views. Minot sits on the Mouse River in north-central North Dakota. Climbing eastbound toward Minneapolis, the right side offers views of the river valley and the gradual transition from prairie to slightly more rolling terrain as you head toward Minnesota. Notable sights include: Mouse River valley, Minot city grid, northern Great Plains prairie, gradual elevation increase toward Minnesota border.
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. Approaching Minneapolis-St. Paul from the northwest, the left side provides views of the Minnesota River valley and the Twin Cities' urban sprawl as you descend. You'll see the transition from agricultural land into the metropolitan area. Notable sights include: Minnesota River valley, Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, Mississippi River confluence, urban development pattern.
How long is the flight from Minot to Minneapolis?
The flight from Minot International (MOT) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 448 miles (721 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Minot to Minneapolis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Minnesota, passing over agricultural land, small lakes scattered throughout the region (particularly visible in central Minnesota), and the gradual transition from the flat prairie of North Dakota into the slightly more varied terrain of Minnesota. The Minnesota River valley becomes increasingly prominent as you approach the Twin Cities.