While takeoff offers decent views of the Twin Cities lakes, the landing approach into St. Louis provides more dramatic scenery with the Mississippi-Missouri River confluence and the iconic Gateway Arch. The left side captures these major geographic and urban features effectively.
Flown MSP to STL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Minneapolis to St. Louis is 448 miles (721 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Illinois, passing over the Illinois River valley and scattered farmland. The Des Moines area lies to the west of the direct route. The landscape transitions from the glaciated terrain of Minnesota through agricultural plains of Iowa and Illinois. The Illinois River appears as a dark line running roughly north-south through the central portion of the state. No major mountain ranges are visible on this route—the terrain remains predominantly flat throughout.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSP
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Minnesota River valley and the Minneapolis-St. Paul urban sprawl as the aircraft climbs southward. You'll see the distinctive pattern of lakes dotting the Twin Cities metro area receding beneath you.
Landing at STL
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Mississippi River and the St. Louis urban area during descent. You'll see the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis skyline clearly, plus the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers—a dramatic geographic feature.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) to Lambert St Louis International (STL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Minneapolis to St. Louis. While takeoff offers decent views of the Twin Cities lakes, the landing approach into St. Louis provides more dramatic scenery with the Mississippi-Missouri River confluence and the iconic Gateway Arch. The left side captures these major geographic and urban features effectively.
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 the Minneapolis-St. Paul urban sprawl as the aircraft climbs southward. You'll see the distinctive pattern of lakes dotting the Twin Cities metro area receding beneath you. Notable sights include: Minnesota River valley, Lake Calhoun and Chain of Lakes (Minneapolis), Mississippi River confluence, Twin Cities urban grid.
What can I see when landing at Lambert St Louis International in St. Louis?
When landing at Lambert St Louis International (STL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Mississippi River and the St. Louis urban area during descent. You'll see the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis skyline clearly, plus the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers—a dramatic geographic feature. Notable sights include: Mississippi River, Missouri River confluence, Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis, Meramec River.
How long is the flight from Minneapolis to St. Louis?
The flight from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) to Lambert St Louis International (STL) 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 Minneapolis to St. Louis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Illinois, passing over the Illinois River valley and scattered farmland. The Des Moines area lies to the west of the direct route. The landscape transitions from the glaciated terrain of Minnesota through agricultural plains of Iowa and Illinois. The Illinois River appears as a dark line running roughly north-south through the central portion of the state. No major mountain ranges are visible on this route—the terrain remains predominantly flat throughout.