While takeoff offers coastal water views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with the Mississippi-Minnesota River confluence and valley system. The river systems create more visually interesting patterns than the relatively flat coastal departure.
Flown ORF to MSP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Norfolk to Minneapolis is 1,043 miles (1,679 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
Appalachian foothills (West Virginia and eastern Kentucky), Ohio River valley, transition from Appalachian terrain to Great Lakes region, Lake Michigan visible on approach to Minneapolis
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORF
RIGHTRight side offers views of the Hampton Roads waterway and the Atlantic coastline as you climb out. The James River estuary and the confluence of multiple rivers create distinctive water patterns visible during the initial climb.
Landing at MSP
LEFTLeft side provides views of the Minnesota River valley and the Mississippi River confluence as you descend into Minneapolis. These river systems create striking visual patterns and mark the geography around the Twin Cities.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Norfolk International (ORF) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Norfolk to Minneapolis. While takeoff offers coastal water views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with the Mississippi-Minnesota River confluence and valley system. The river systems create more visually interesting patterns than the relatively flat coastal departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Norfolk International in Norfolk?
During takeoff from Norfolk International (ORF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers views of the Hampton Roads waterway and the Atlantic coastline as you climb out. The James River estuary and the confluence of multiple rivers create distinctive water patterns visible during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Hampton Roads (major naval anchorage and shipping channel), James River estuary, Atlantic coastline, Chesapeake Bay to the north.
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 provides views of the Minnesota River valley and the Mississippi River confluence as you descend into Minneapolis. These river systems create striking visual patterns and mark the geography around the Twin Cities. Notable sights include: Mississippi River, Minnesota River confluence, Minnesota River valley, Twin Cities urban sprawl.
How long is the flight from Norfolk to Minneapolis?
The flight from Norfolk International (ORF) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,043 miles (1,679 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Norfolk to Minneapolis flight path pass over?
Appalachian foothills (West Virginia and eastern Kentucky), Ohio River valley, transition from Appalachian terrain to Great Lakes region, Lake Michigan visible on approach to Minneapolis