While takeoff favors the right, the landing view of the Great Smoky Mountains from the left side is significantly more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The approach descent provides extended views of genuine mountain terrain that dominate the visual experience for the final 30+ minutes of flight.
Flown MSP to TYS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Minneapolis to Knoxville is 792 miles (1,274 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Kentucky, passing east of Louisville and west of the Daniel Boone National Forest. You'll cross the Cumberland Plateau region, which shows as rolling, forested terrain with visible ridge patterns. The Ohio River valley lies to the west during the early portion of the flight. As you progress southeast, the terrain gradually transitions from relatively flat Kentucky farmland to the increasingly pronounced ridge-and-valley topography of the Appalachian region approaching Tennessee.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSP
RIGHTMSP typically departs runways 04L/R or 09L/R depending on wind. Right-side seats offer views of the Minnesota River valley and urban sprawl southeast of the airport during initial climb. Left seats face northwest toward less distinctive terrain.
Landing at TYS
LEFTApproach to TYS typically uses runways 03L/R or 21L/R. Left-side seats during descent provide excellent views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee Valley. The ridgelines of the Smoky Mountains become increasingly prominent as you descend toward Knoxville, offering dramatic topography.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) to Mc Ghee Tyson (TYS)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Minneapolis to Knoxville. While takeoff favors the right, the landing view of the Great Smoky Mountains from the left side is significantly more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The approach descent provides extended views of genuine mountain terrain that dominate the visual experience for the final 30+ minutes of flight.
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. MSP typically departs runways 04L/R or 09L/R depending on wind. Right-side seats offer views of the Minnesota River valley and urban sprawl southeast of the airport during initial climb. Left seats face northwest toward less distinctive terrain. Notable sights include: Minnesota River valley, Minneapolis-St Paul urban grid, Mall of America (visible as large complex near Bloomington), Mississippi River confluence.
What can I see when landing at Mc Ghee Tyson in Knoxville?
When landing at Mc Ghee Tyson (TYS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Approach to TYS typically uses runways 03L/R or 21L/R. Left-side seats during descent provide excellent views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee Valley. The ridgelines of the Smoky Mountains become increasingly prominent as you descend toward Knoxville, offering dramatic topography. Notable sights include: Great Smoky Mountains (eastern ridgelines), Tennessee River valley, Knoxville urban area, Sevier County foothills.
How long is the flight from Minneapolis to Knoxville?
The flight from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) to Mc Ghee Tyson (TYS) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 792 miles (1,274 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Minneapolis to Knoxville flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Kentucky, passing east of Louisville and west of the Daniel Boone National Forest. You'll cross the Cumberland Plateau region, which shows as rolling, forested terrain with visible ridge patterns. The Ohio River valley lies to the west during the early portion of the flight. As you progress southeast, the terrain gradually transitions from relatively flat Kentucky farmland to the increasingly pronounced ridge-and-valley topography of the Appalachian region approaching Tennessee.