While takeoff favors the right, the landing view of the Mississippi River and Memphis geography is significantly more dramatic and memorable. The river approach is the defining visual feature of this route, making left-side seats the better overall choice for the full journey.
Flown MSP to MEM? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Minneapolis to Memphis is 701 miles (1,128 km), a flight of about 2 hours 5 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Tennessee, passing east of Nashville. Notable features include the Cumberland River valley, the Highland Rim plateau terrain, and the transition from the Upper Midwest's glaciated landscape to the more rolling topography of the Tennessee Valley. The Duck River and various reservoirs (including Percy Priest Lake near Nashville) may be visible depending on exact flight path and altitude. The landscape gradually transitions from northern hardwood forests to mixed deciduous forest typical of the mid-South.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSP
RIGHTRight side seats offer views of the Minnesota River valley and urban Minneapolis sprawl immediately after departure. MSP typically departs runways 04/22 or 09/27; regardless of direction, the right side captures the transition from airport infrastructure into the surrounding Twin Cities metropolitan area and river systems.
Landing at MEM
LEFTLeft side seats provide the best views during approach to Memphis. MEM typically uses runways 09/27; approaches from the north generally favor left-side views of the Mississippi River, which is the dominant geographic feature near Memphis and creates a striking visual reference during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) to Memphis International (MEM)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Minneapolis to Memphis. While takeoff favors the right, the landing view of the Mississippi River and Memphis geography is significantly more dramatic and memorable. The river approach is the defining visual feature of this route, making left-side seats the better overall choice for the full journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Minneapolis St Paul International in Minneapolis?
During takeoff from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side seats offer views of the Minnesota River valley and urban Minneapolis sprawl immediately after departure. MSP typically departs runways 04/22 or 09/27; regardless of direction, the right side captures the transition from airport infrastructure into the surrounding Twin Cities metropolitan area and river systems. Notable sights include: Minnesota River valley (southwest of airport), Minneapolis downtown skyline, Mississippi River confluence, suburban sprawl extending toward St. Paul.
What can I see when landing at Memphis International in Memphis?
When landing at Memphis International (MEM), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side seats provide the best views during approach to Memphis. MEM typically uses runways 09/27; approaches from the north generally favor left-side views of the Mississippi River, which is the dominant geographic feature near Memphis and creates a striking visual reference during descent. Notable sights include: Mississippi River (main channel and oxbow lakes), Memphis urban core along the bluffs, Wolf River confluence, Shelby Farms area.
How long is the flight from Minneapolis to Memphis?
The flight from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) to Memphis International (MEM) 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 Minneapolis to Memphis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Tennessee, passing east of Nashville. Notable features include the Cumberland River valley, the Highland Rim plateau terrain, and the transition from the Upper Midwest's glaciated landscape to the more rolling topography of the Tennessee Valley. The Duck River and various reservoirs (including Percy Priest Lake near Nashville) may be visible depending on exact flight path and altitude. The landscape gradually transitions from northern hardwood forests to mixed deciduous forest typical of the mid-South.