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BWI → MDW
Which side of the plane to sit from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (Baltimore) to Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Baltimore skyline shortly after takeoff and an iconic, world-class approach over Lake Michigan toward the Chicago skyline when landing at Midway.
Baltimore Inner Harbor
Direct views of the Maryland Science Center, National Aquarium, and the downtown Baltimore skyline upon departure.
Deep Creek Lake
Maryland's largest inland body of water visible as the aircraft cruises over the western panhandle.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
The dramatic transition from the Indiana Dunes to the vast blue expanse of the Great Lakes during the descent.
Chicago Skyline
Unmatched views of the Willis Tower and the dense skyscrapers of the Loop when the pilot approaches from the lake.
Book a seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Chicago skyline during the final approach. If flying in winter, look for the unique shelf ice formations along the Lake Michigan shoreline which are highly visible from this side.
Potomac River Valley
Aerial views of the winding Potomac River and the historic confluence at Harpers Ferry early in the flight.
Appalachian Ridges
The rolling green and blue ridges of the Allegheny Mountains stretching across Maryland and West Virginia.
Midwestern Patchwork
Perfectly geometric agricultural patterns across Ohio and Indiana, displaying a vibrant quilt of crop colors.
Industrial Indiana
Views of the heavy industrial infrastructure and rail yards as the flight descends into the Chicagoland area.
The left side is excellent for sunset flights as you head west, casting long shadows over the Appalachian ridges. For the best views of the rural landscape, mid-day flights provide the clearest lighting for photography of the Midwestern 'grid' system.
Distance: 981 km (610 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)
Arrival: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Route Type: Domestic
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