What is the minimum connection time at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International (MSP)?

The official minimum connection time at MSP is 50 minutes for domestic-to-domestic connections and 120 minutes for international connections. These times account for typical terminal transfer, but do not factor in delays. Early morning flights tend to have fewer delays.

How much time do I need to connect at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International (MSP)?

The minimum connection time at MSP is 50 minutes for domestic flights and 120 minutes for international connections. MSP has an on-time rate of 83%, and when flights are delayed, the average delay is 74 minutes. We recommend adding at least 15-30 minutes of buffer above the minimum, especially during winter months or afternoon travel.

Do I need to go through security again at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International (MSP)?

Yes, some connections at MSP require going through TSA security again. Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are separate buildings. Connecting between them requires exiting security and re-screening. Light rail (Blue Line) connects Terminal 1 and Terminal 2; bus also available. Allow 5-10 minutes within Terminal 1; 15-25 minutes between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 for terminal transfers.

Will I make my connection with a 50-minute layover at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International (MSP)?

A 50-minute layover at MSP is risky. The estimated miss rate is about 16%. We recommend at least 137 minutes for a comfortable connection.

MSP Minimum Connection Time

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International — Minneapolis

The minimum connection time at MSP is 50 minutes for domestic flights and 120 minutes for international connections. MSP has an on-time arrival rate of 83%. When flights are delayed, the average delay is 74 minutes.

Official Minimum Connection Time at MSP

50m

Domestic Minimum

120m

International Minimum

Getting Between Terminals at MSP

Terminals: Terminal 1 (Lindbergh — Concourses A-G) | Terminal 2 (Humphrey — Gates 1-12)

How to transfer: Light rail (Blue Line) connects Terminal 1 and Terminal 2; bus also available

Transfer time: 5-10 minutes within Terminal 1; 15-25 minutes between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2

!TSA re-screening: Required for some terminal changes — Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are separate buildings. Connecting between them requires exiting security and re-screening.

Terminal-to-Terminal Walk Times at MSP

From	To	Time
Terminal 1 Concourse A	Terminal 1 Concourse G	12-15 min
Terminal 1	Terminal 2	15-25 min (light rail)

Miss Rate by Layover Time at MSP

Miss rate = estimated % chance of missing your connection based on BTS delay data. Click any row for details.

Check Your Specific Layover at MSP

Enter your exact connection time and travel month for a personalized risk assessment.

Pro Tips for Connecting at MSP

→Delta dominates Terminal 1 and is MSP's largest carrier. Most Delta connections stay within Terminal 1.

→Terminal 2 is used by budget carriers like Sun Country and Allegiant. If one leg is Delta and the other is Sun Country, you must change terminals.

→MSP handles winter weather well thanks to extensive deicing operations, but severe cold snaps can still cause delays.

→Book both legs on the same ticket. If you miss your connection, the airline must rebook you at no charge. Separate tickets mean you're on your own.

→Choose morning flights for your first leg. Flights before 8 AM are delayed significantly less than afternoon flights.

→Avoid checking bags on tight connections. Carry-on only gives you maximum flexibility if you need to switch flights.

More About MSP

Full MSP delay stats & on-time performance →Missed your connection? Here's what to do →Your rights — what the airline owes you