Loading map...

BWI destination photo
MDW destination photo

BWIMDW

Our Recommendation
8.7

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

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.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🛶

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.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

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

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.