While takeoff offers good Edmonton views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic scenery with the river confluence and Minneapolis skyline. The left side captures the visual highlight of the entire flight.
Flown YEG to MSP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Edmonton to Minneapolis is 1,084 miles (1,744 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Canadian prairies heading south-southeast. Notable features include the North Dakota prairie landscape (flat, agricultural), occasional small lakes and wetlands in Minnesota's northern regions, and the gradual transition from boreal forest to deciduous forest as you approach the Twin Cities. The Minnesota River valley becomes increasingly visible about 30 minutes before landing.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from YEG
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the North Saskatchewan River valley as it winds through Edmonton's downtown core, plus the sprawling urban grid of the city itself during the initial climb-out. The river's distinctive meanders are clearly visible from altitude.
Landing at MSP
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Minnesota River valley and the Minneapolis-St. Paul urban area during descent. You'll see the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers, plus the distinctive downtown Minneapolis skyline on the left side of the approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Edmonton International (YEG) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Edmonton to Minneapolis. While takeoff offers good Edmonton views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic scenery with the river confluence and Minneapolis skyline. The left side captures the visual highlight of the entire flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Edmonton International in Edmonton?
During takeoff from Edmonton International (YEG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the North Saskatchewan River valley as it winds through Edmonton's downtown core, plus the sprawling urban grid of the city itself during the initial climb-out. The river's distinctive meanders are clearly visible from altitude. Notable sights include: North Saskatchewan River, Edmonton downtown skyline, Whyte Avenue district, Astotin Lake (visible to the southeast as you gain altitude).
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 provide excellent views of the Minnesota River valley and the Minneapolis-St. Paul urban area during descent. You'll see the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers, plus the distinctive downtown Minneapolis skyline on the left side of the approach. Notable sights include: Minnesota River valley, Mississippi River, Minneapolis downtown skyline, St. Paul Cathedral area.
How long is the flight from Edmonton to Minneapolis?
The flight from Edmonton International (YEG) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,084 miles (1,744 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Edmonton to Minneapolis flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Canadian prairies heading south-southeast. Notable features include the North Dakota prairie landscape (flat, agricultural), occasional small lakes and wetlands in Minnesota's northern regions, and the gradual transition from boreal forest to deciduous forest as you approach the Twin Cities. The Minnesota River valley becomes increasingly visible about 30 minutes before landing.