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Is a 45 min layover in Minneapolis long enough?

MSP · Minneapolis St Paul International · Minneapolis, United States
Probably Enough

Yes, 45 minutes is probably enough for a layover at MSP (Minneapolis).

Comfortable for Delta hub connections within Terminal 1, though still risky if changing to Terminal 2.
Quick Stats
Concourses
2
Max Transit
30m
Avg. Security
20m
Primary Hub
Delta Air Lines
Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
35min
✓
Domestic → International
45min
tight
International → Domestic
60min
✗
International → International
60min
✗
AD PLACEMENT — CONTEXTUAL
Tips for 45 min Connections
Check whether your connection stays within Terminal 1 (Delta) or requires a switch to Terminal 2 (Southwest, Sun Country, Spirit, most international leisure carriers) — the latter needs much more time.
Use the Delta Skyway tram to move quickly between Concourses C, F, and G rather than walking the full length of the terminal.
International arrivals clear Customs and re-check bags at Terminal 1's FIS facility before continuing to a connecting gate, so budget extra time for that process.
If connecting via light rail to Terminal 2, allow at least 45-60 minutes total once you factor in the ride and a fresh security line.
MSP's Delta Sky Clubs are concentrated in Terminal 1 near Concourses C, F, and G if you have a longer layover.
Busyness — Connection Risk
12a6a12p6p12a
Low risk
Moderate
High risk
Tight connections are safer outside peak hours. Morning rush (6–9a), midday (11a–2p), and evening (4–8p) are highest risk.
Getting Between Concourses
Within Terminal 1, the Delta Skyway tram links Concourses C, F, and G, while A, B, D, and E are reachable by moving walkways and connecting corridors, all airside with no re-screening. Moving between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 requires exiting secure areas, riding the free METRO Blue Line light rail or an inter-terminal shuttle bus (roughly 15-20 minutes), and clearing security again on arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 45 minutes enough for a layover at Minneapolis St Paul International (MSP)?

Comfortable for Delta hub connections within Terminal 1, though still risky if changing to Terminal 2.

What is the minimum connection time at MSP?

Minimum connection times at Minneapolis St Paul International: Domestic-to-Domestic is 35 minutes, International-to-International is 60 minutes. These are the shortest layovers airlines will sell.

Can I make a 45 minutes connection at MSP on an international flight?

45 minutes is below the 60-minute international MCT at Minneapolis St Paul International. You may need to rush and could miss your connection. Within Terminal 1, the Delta Skyway tram links Concourses C, F, and G, while A, B, D, and E are reachable by moving walkways and connecting corridors, all airside with no re-screening. Moving between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 requires exiting secure areas, riding the free METRO Blue Line light rail or an inter-terminal shuttle bus (roughly 15-20 minutes), and clearing security again on arrival.

What happens if I miss my connection at MSP?

Delta operates a large rebooking presence throughout Terminal 1, including agents near the Delta Skyway tram stops and self-service kiosks, so missed-connection passengers are typically rebooked quickly given MSP's hub frequency. Passengers on Terminal 2 carriers like Southwest or Sun Country should go directly to that airline's customer service desk in Terminal 2 rather than expect help from Terminal 1 agents.

Other Layover Durations at MSP
25 min30 min35 min40 min50 min55 min1 hr1¼ hr1½ hr1¾ hr2 hr2½ hr3 hr4 hr
45 min Layovers at Other Airports
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AD PLACEMENT — BEFORE FOOTER