The left side delivers a stronger and more continuous run of terrain: Vancouver's mountain-backed takeoff, glimpses of the Selkirk and Purcell ranges over the BC-Idaho border, and the peaks of Glacier National Park near the Continental Divide, whereas the right side's best moment (Mt. Baker) is brief before miles of flat prairie and farmland dominate the rest of the flight.
Flown YVR to MSP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Vancouver to Minneapolis is 1,432 miles (2,305 km), a flight of about 2 hours 45 minutes.
Selkirk and Purcell Mountains along the BC-Idaho-Montana border, the Continental Divide near Glacier National Park, and the northern Great Plains of Montana and North Dakota
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from YVR
LEFTDeparting YVR, the initial climb and turn put the North Shore Mountains and downtown Vancouver's skyline on the left side, framed by Burrard Inlet and the Strait of Georgia. It's a dramatic mountain-and-harbor combination rarely matched at other North American airports.
Landing at MSP
RIGHTOn approach into MSP from the northwest, the turn toward the runway typically swings south of downtown, putting the Minneapolis skyline, the Mississippi River, and the region's characteristic lakes on the right side. It's the most visually distinct moment of an otherwise flat approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Vancouver International (YVR) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Vancouver to Minneapolis. The left side delivers a stronger and more continuous run of terrain: Vancouver's mountain-backed takeoff, glimpses of the Selkirk and Purcell ranges over the BC-Idaho border, and the peaks of Glacier National Park near the Continental Divide, whereas the right side's best moment (Mt. Baker) is brief before miles of flat prairie and farmland dominate the rest of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Vancouver International in Vancouver?
During takeoff from Vancouver International (YVR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing YVR, the initial climb and turn put the North Shore Mountains and downtown Vancouver's skyline on the left side, framed by Burrard Inlet and the Strait of Georgia. It's a dramatic mountain-and-harbor combination rarely matched at other North American airports. Notable sights include: North Shore Mountains (Grouse Mountain, Lions Peak), downtown Vancouver skyline, Burrard Inlet, Strait of Georgia.
What can I see when landing at Minneapolis St Paul International in Minneapolis?
When landing at Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into MSP from the northwest, the turn toward the runway typically swings south of downtown, putting the Minneapolis skyline, the Mississippi River, and the region's characteristic lakes on the right side. It's the most visually distinct moment of an otherwise flat approach. Notable sights include: Minneapolis downtown skyline, Mississippi River, Lake Calhoun/Bde Maka Ska, Minnesota River confluence.
How long is the flight from Vancouver to Minneapolis?
The flight from Vancouver International (YVR) to Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP) takes about 2 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,432 miles (2,305 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Vancouver to Minneapolis flight path pass over?
Selkirk and Purcell Mountains along the BC-Idaho-Montana border, the Continental Divide near Glacier National Park, and the northern Great Plains of Montana and North Dakota