While the right side offers better views during takeoff from Minneapolis, the left side provides superior scenery during the critical descent phase into Montreal, including the dramatic St. Lawrence River and Laurentian Mountains. The landing views are more visually distinctive and memorable.
Flown MSP to YUL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Minneapolis to Montreal is 947 miles (1,525 km), a flight of about 2 hours 30 minutes.
The flight path crosses Lake Michigan's eastern shore (visible from either side depending on exact routing), then proceeds over Michigan's Lower Peninsula and the Great Lakes region. The Straits of Mackinac area and northern Michigan forests are visible mid-flight. As the aircraft approaches the Canadian border, the terrain transitions from the Great Lakes basin to the Canadian Shield, with increasing forest coverage. The Ottawa River valley becomes visible in the final approach phase, marking entry into Quebec.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSP
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Minnesota River valley and the Twin Cities urban sprawl as the aircraft climbs northeast. You'll see the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area receding below, with clear views of the Mississippi River's confluence and surrounding lakes.
Landing at YUL
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Montreal. You'll see the St. Lawrence River clearly as you approach from the southwest, plus views of the Laurentian Mountains to the north and the Ottawa River valley to the west.
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 Montreal International Dorval (YUL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Minneapolis to Montreal. While the right side offers better views during takeoff from Minneapolis, the left side provides superior scenery during the critical descent phase into Montreal, including the dramatic St. Lawrence River and Laurentian Mountains. The landing views are more visually distinctive and memorable.
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 Twin Cities urban sprawl as the aircraft climbs northeast. You'll see the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area receding below, with clear views of the Mississippi River's confluence and surrounding lakes. Notable sights include: Mississippi River, Minnesota River, Lake Calhoun, Minneapolis-St. Paul urban grid.
What can I see when landing at Montreal International Dorval in Montreal?
When landing at Montreal International Dorval (YUL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Montreal. You'll see the St. Lawrence River clearly as you approach from the southwest, plus views of the Laurentian Mountains to the north and the Ottawa River valley to the west. Notable sights include: St. Lawrence River, Laurentian Mountains, Ottawa River, Montreal urban area.
How long is the flight from Minneapolis to Montreal?
The flight from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) to Montreal International Dorval (YUL) takes about 2 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 947 miles (1,525 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Minneapolis to Montreal flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses Lake Michigan's eastern shore (visible from either side depending on exact routing), then proceeds over Michigan's Lower Peninsula and the Great Lakes region. The Straits of Mackinac area and northern Michigan forests are visible mid-flight. As the aircraft approaches the Canadian border, the terrain transitions from the Great Lakes basin to the Canadian Shield, with increasing forest coverage. The Ottawa River valley becomes visible in the final approach phase, marking entry into Quebec.