The right side wins primarily on the strength of the Calgary approach, where the Rocky Mountains dominate the view — a dramatic contrast to the otherwise flat prairie scenery that defines most of this route.
Flown MSP to YYC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Minneapolis to Calgary is 1,049 miles (1,688 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
Flat farmland of North Dakota, the rolling prairie of southern Saskatchewan, and scattered lakes near the Saskatchewan-Alberta border
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MSP
LEFTDeparting MSP to the northwest, the left side offers a brief glimpse of the Mississippi River and the Twin Cities' western suburbs before the flat prairie takes over. Neither side has dramatic terrain, but the river and urban patchwork give the left a slight edge.
Landing at YYC
RIGHTOn approach into Calgary, aircraft typically align south for runway 17, putting the Rocky Mountains' front range on the right side of the cabin. The jagged, snow-streaked peaks rising abruptly from the prairie make for a striking final descent, unlike anything on the departure side.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) to Calgary International (YYC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Minneapolis to Calgary. The right side wins primarily on the strength of the Calgary approach, where the Rocky Mountains dominate the view — a dramatic contrast to the otherwise flat prairie scenery that defines most of this route.
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. Departing MSP to the northwest, the left side offers a brief glimpse of the Mississippi River and the Twin Cities' western suburbs before the flat prairie takes over. Neither side has dramatic terrain, but the river and urban patchwork give the left a slight edge. Notable sights include: Mississippi River, Minneapolis western suburbs, Lake Minnetonka.
What can I see when landing at Calgary International in Calgary?
When landing at Calgary International (YYC), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into Calgary, aircraft typically align south for runway 17, putting the Rocky Mountains' front range on the right side of the cabin. The jagged, snow-streaked peaks rising abruptly from the prairie make for a striking final descent, unlike anything on the departure side. Notable sights include: Rocky Mountains front range, Bow River, downtown Calgary skyline, foothills near Cochrane.
How long is the flight from Minneapolis to Calgary?
The flight from Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) to Calgary International (YYC) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,049 miles (1,688 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Minneapolis to Calgary flight path pass over?
Flat farmland of North Dakota, the rolling prairie of southern Saskatchewan, and scattered lakes near the Saskatchewan-Alberta border