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MDW → CLT
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning departure view of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan, followed by the lush greenery of the Daniel Boone National Forest and the Bluegrass region.
Chicago Skyline
Dramatic views of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers immediately after takeoff from Midway.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
The vast blue expanse of the lake and the Indiana Dunes are visible during the initial climb phase.
Bluegrass Region
Fly over the rolling hills and horse farms surrounding Lexington, Kentucky, known for their vibrant green hues.
Daniel Boone National Forest
Deep ridges and dense forest canopies provide a rugged landscape as you cross into the Appalachian foothills.
Appalachian Ridges
Parallel mountain ridges of the Appalachian chain offer a rhythmic and textured view before the descent into North Carolina.
Sit on the left for the best morning light during southbound flights. If taking off to the east, the Chicago skyline will be visible shortly after lift-off. During the autumn months, the foliage over the Kentucky and Tennessee border is spectacular between late October and early November.
Ohio River Crossing
Excellent views of the winding Ohio River near the Louisville metropolitan area.
Louisville Metro
Clear views of the urban sprawl and industrial sectors of Kentucky's largest city.
Cumberland Plateau
Witness the flat-topped tablelands and deep gorges that define this unique geological region.
Great Smoky Mountains
Distant views of the mist-covered peaks of the Smokies often appear on the horizon during the cruise phase.
Charlotte Approach
A great perspective of the 'Queen City' and its burgeoning Uptown skyline as the plane banks for landing.
Choose the right side for sunset views on evening flights. This side provides a better angle of the Ohio River and the Western North Carolina mountains. Keep an eye out for Lake Norman just north of Charlotte during the final approach, which is often shimmering in the late afternoon sun.
Distance: 940 km (584 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Arrival: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Route Type: Domestic
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