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CMH → MDW
Which side of the plane to sit from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (Columbus) to Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the clear winner for this short hop, offering the iconic view of the Chicago skyline and the Navy Pier during the descent into Midway, particularly when the wind necessitates a northern approach pattern.
Search flights from CMH to MDW
Fort Wayne Vicinity
Visuals of the confluence of the St. Marys, St. Joseph, and Maumee Rivers near the Indiana border.
Indiana Dunes
The unique sandy shoreline and protected wetlands where Lake Michigan meets the Indiana coast.
Chicago Skyline
The premier view of the Willis Tower, the Hancock Center, and the dense cluster of Loop skyscrapers.
Navy Pier
Clear sightlines of the historic pier and its Ferris wheel jutting out into the blue waters of Lake Michigan.
The right side is essential for the skyline view. Flights landing at MDW often track just offshore over Lake Michigan before turning west; this provides a panoramic view of the entire city. For the best lighting, book a late afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the glass towers from the west.
Book Hotels in ChicagoColumbus Outskirts
Aerial views of the suburban expansion and the Scioto River valley shortly after takeoff from CMH.
Midwestern Patchwork
Vibrant green and gold agricultural grids across Western Ohio and Central Indiana.
Gary Steel Mills
The massive industrial landscape and heavy infrastructure of Northwest Indiana along the lake's southern tip.
Sit on the left side during morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is ideal for those interested in the industrial geography of the Great Lakes region and the dense urban sprawl of the South Side of Chicago during final descent.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 454 km (282 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 45 min
Departure: CMH (39.998001, -82.891899)
Arrival: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Route Type: Domestic
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