At the last base visit by the Crew Planning guys, they responded to questions about MSP's size by stating that FAR 117 made MSP a "more flexible" base than those in the Eastern or Pacific time zones. MSP pilots can fly to either coast without chewing through too much FDP, so they have the ability to continue North/South (or back) once there.

I heard Richard Anderson state that DTW is the "most optimized" international airport in the US. Eastern time zone, but outside NY Center's airspace. Good runways, and a great terminal for connections.