About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from New Orleans to Minneapolis. While landing favors the left, the takeoff view of the Mississippi River's distinctive oxbow patterns is more visually compelling and geographically significant than the landing approach. The river is a major geographic feature visible for an extended period during climb-out.
What can I see during takeoff from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International in New Orleans?
During takeoff from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Mississippi River's dramatic meanders as you climb out over the New Orleans area. The river's oxbow bends are distinctive and visible for several minutes during initial climb. Left side faces inland swamp and residential areas with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Mississippi River with visible oxbow bends, Lake Pontchartrain to the north, New Orleans urban grid, Swamp terrain to the west.
What can I see when landing at Minneapolis St Paul International in Minneapolis?
When landing at Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the Minnesota River valley and the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area as you descend into MSP. The river's confluence with the Mississippi is visible on approach, and the urban sprawl of the Twin Cities provides geographic context. Right side faces less distinctive terrain. Notable sights include: Minnesota River valley, Mississippi River confluence, Minneapolis-St. Paul urban area, Minnesota farmland and lakes.
How long is the flight from New Orleans to Minneapolis?
The flight from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) takes Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes.
What does the New Orleans to Minneapolis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Illinois and southern Wisconsin. Notable features include the Illinois River valley (visible around 1 hour into flight), the transition from Mississippi River bottomlands to agricultural plains, and scattered lakes in southern Wisconsin. The terrain gradually rises from sea-level New Orleans to approximately 900 feet elevation at Minneapolis. No major mountain ranges are visible on this route—the landscape remains predominantly flat to gently rolling throughout the flight.