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MDW → CMH
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (Columbus)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior primarily for the departure out of Midway, offering an iconic view of the Chicago skyline and the southern curve of Lake Michigan. During the short flight, it also provides a clear view of the Indiana shoreline industrial hubs and the northern suburbs of Columbus upon arrival.
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Chicago Skyline
Breathtaking views of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers shortly after takeoff from MDW.
Lake Michigan Coastline
The deep blue waters of the southern tip of the lake provide a sharp contrast to the urban landscape.
Gary Industrial Zone
A fascinating look at the massive steel mills and heavy industry infrastructure along the Indiana shore.
Indiana Farmland
The quintessential Midwestern patchwork of golden and green fields laid out in a perfect geometric grid.
Hoover Reservoir
A large, scenic body of water located just northeast of Columbus, visible during the final descent.
Sit on the left side (Port) for the best chance to see the Sears Tower during departure. In the morning, you will have the sun behind you, providing excellent lighting for photography of the Chicago skyline. For the best views of the reservoir and northern Columbus, keep your window shade up about 15 minutes before landing.
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Midwest Rail Hubs
View the massive sprawling rail yards and logistics centers that define the southern Chicago suburbs.
Indiana Wind Farms
Clusters of modern wind turbines visible across the flat plains of central Indiana.
Downtown Columbus
If the flight approaches CMH from the west, you will get a clear view of the Ohio Statehouse and city center.
Scioto River Valley
The winding river paths and lush green corridors leading into the Columbus metropolitan area.
Choose the right side if you are flying in the late afternoon to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side offers better views of the Columbus city center if the aircraft is assigned a western approach (Runway 10L/R). Look for the geometric patterns of wind farms mid-flight for interesting aerial textures.
Book Hotels in ColumbusDistance: 454 km (282 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 45 min
Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Arrival: CMH (39.998001, -82.891899)
Route Type: Domestic
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