About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Phoenix to Minneapolis. Left side wins at both ends of the flight. During cruise the left side also faces generally south and east, giving views over the Colorado Plateau, the Rockies as they transition into the Great Plains, and eventually the Minnesota lake country. Right side has less to offer at both departure and arrival.
What can I see during takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International in Phoenix?
During takeoff from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX), sit on the Left side for the best views. PHX primarily uses runways 7R/25L and 8/26. Departing northeast toward MSP, aircraft typically climb out heading east or northeast. A left (north-facing) seat gives you a clear view of South Mountain Park rising immediately south of the city, plus the downtown Phoenix grid and the Salt River channel. The McDowell Mountains and Scottsdale sprawl are also visible to the northeast. Notable sights include: South Mountain Park, downtown Phoenix skyline, McDowell Mountains, Salt River channel.
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. MSP typically lands on runways 12L/30R or 17/35 depending on wind. On a northeast approach from the south or southwest, the left side faces east and gives a direct view over downtown Minneapolis, the Mississippi River gorge, and the chain of lakes in south Minneapolis including Lake Nokomis and Lake Harriet. These are among the most visually distinctive features of the Twin Cities from the air. Notable sights include: Downtown Minneapolis skyline, Mississippi River gorge, Lake Nokomis, Lake Harriet.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to Minneapolis?
The flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International (PHX) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) takes Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 45 minutes.
What does the Phoenix to Minneapolis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses northeastern Arizona over the Painted Desert and Navajo Nation, then over the Four Corners region with the San Juan Mountains visible to the west. Crossing Colorado and into Kansas the terrain flattens dramatically into the High Plains. Over Nebraska and Iowa the Missouri River and then the Des Moines River valley are visible. Southern Minnesota brings the beginning of the glacially-carved lake district before the Twin Cities metro appears.