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MCI → MDW
Which side of the plane to sit from Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City) to Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for this route, providing a spectacular panoramic view of the Chicago skyline, including the Willis Tower and the Lake Michigan waterfront, during the descent into Midway.
Search flights from MCI to MDW
Missouri River
Visible shortly after departure from MCI, the river marks the boundary between Kansas and Missouri.
Mississippi River
A major geographic milestone as the flight crosses the border into Illinois, typically near the Quad Cities region.
O'Hare View
On the descent, you can often spot the massive airfield of O'Hare International Airport to the north.
Chicago Loop
Unrivaled views of the Willis Tower and the dense cluster of skyscrapers that define the Chicago skyline.
Lake Michigan
The deep blue expanse of the lake provides a stunning backdrop as the aircraft aligns for its final approach.
Sit on the left side (Window A) and choose a seat in front of the wing for an unobstructed view of the skyline. Morning flights are ideal as the rising sun reflects off the glass of the skyscrapers. During winter, look for the unique patterns of ice floes on Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River.
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Get eSIMs for United StatesKansas City Skyline
Depending on takeoff direction, catch a glimpse of the KCMO downtown buildings to the south.
Midwestern Grid
Observe the perfect geometric patchwork of Missouri and Illinois farmlands from cruising altitude.
Des Plaines River
Follow the winding path of this river and its associated industrial corridors as you enter the Chicago metro area.
South Side Industry
See the massive manufacturing plants, oil refineries, and shipping docks that define the region's industrial heritage.
Rail Hubs
Look for the enormous intermodal rail yards that make Chicago the most important rail hub in North America.
The right side (Window F) is better for observing the industrial and residential sprawl of the South Side. It is particularly interesting at night when the perfectly straight street grids of Chicago and its suburbs are lit up like a circuit board. For the best experience, avoid seats over the wing which can block the view of the ground during banking maneuvers.
Book Hotels in ChicagoDistance: 650 km (404 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min
Departure: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)
Arrival: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Route Type: Domestic
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