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MDW → ABQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago) to Albuquerque International Sunport (Albuquerque)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular approach into Albuquerque with prime views of the Sandia Mountains and the Sangre de Cristo range, while also avoiding direct southern sun glare during the westbound flight.
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O'Hare Airport
A distant view of the massive O'Hare complex to the north during the initial climb out of the Chicago area.
Missouri River
Viewing the winding curves of the Missouri River near Kansas City or northern Missouri.
Kansas Wind Farms
Massive clusters of white wind turbines dotting the landscape across the windy plains.
Sangre de Cristo Range
The southern tip of the Rocky Mountains visible in northern New Mexico as you approach your destination.
Sandia Peak
A dramatic view of the 10,678-foot limestone cliffs that tower over the city of Albuquerque.
This is the 'cool' side for afternoon flights, as it stays in the shade. The descent is the star of the show; the right side typically gets a front-row seat to the Sandia Mountains. If arriving at sunset, watch for the 'Watermelon' effect where the mountains turn a vibrant pink color.
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Chicago Skyline
Panoramic views of the Willis Tower and downtown Chicago shortly after takeoff from Midway.
Mississippi River
A major crossing of the iconic waterway defining the border between Illinois and Iowa.
Circular Irrigation Patterns
Geometric center-pivot irrigation fields creating a green patchwork across the Kansas plains.
Texas Panhandle
Vast, flat landscapes of the Llano Estacado region near Amarillo as you enter the Southwest.
Manzano Mountains
The rugged mountain range stretching south of Albuquerque during the final descent.
Choose this side for morning flights to have the sun behind you for better photography. Keep an eye out for the Arkansas River crossing in Kansas. During winter, look for the stark contrast of snow on the flat plains against the red soil of the Texas panhandle.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,801 km (1,119 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min
Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Arrival: ABQ (35.040199, -106.609001)
Route Type: Domestic
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