About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Minneapolis to London. Left side wins both ends of the flight. During the transatlantic cruise at 35,000 feet over Greenland and Iceland, the left side also faces south toward the Greenland ice sheet interior and the North Atlantic, though both sides see similar open ocean. The decisive advantage is the London approach, where left side delivers the Thames and central London directly.
What can I see during takeoff from Minneapolis St Paul International in Minneapolis?
During takeoff from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP), sit on the Left side for the best views. MSP departures on runway 17/35 or 12L/30R typically head northeast toward the Atlantic routing. A left-side seat gives you the Minneapolis downtown skyline, the Mississippi River confluence with the Minnesota River, and the chain of lakes in the city's southwest. The river systems are genuinely striking from low altitude during climb-out. Notable sights include: Mississippi and Minnesota River confluence, downtown Minneapolis skyline, Lake Minnetonka to the west, Chain of Lakes (Lake Calhoun/Bde Maka Ska area).
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Heathrow arrivals predominantly use runways 27L/27R, meaning aircraft approach from the east over London. A left-side seat on this approach gives you a direct view over central London — the Thames bends, the City, and the West End are clearly visible on the left side as you descend through 3,000-6,000 feet. Right side gets suburban west London and Windsor. Notable sights include: River Thames and its central London bends, Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park, the City of London cluster, Wembley Stadium arch.
How long is the flight from Minneapolis to London?
The flight from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) to Heathrow (LHR) takes Approximately 8 hours 30 minutes to 9 hours.
What does the Minneapolis to London flight path pass over?
The great circle route from MSP to LHR passes over Lake Superior's eastern end, then across Ontario and Quebec, over Newfoundland and Labrador, then the North Atlantic. The southern tip of Greenland (Cape Farewell) may be visible on the left side in clear conditions. The route then passes south of Iceland before crossing Ireland and Wales into England. Hudson Bay is visible to the north early in the flight on clear days.