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MDW → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior view of the iconic Chicago skyline upon departure from Midway and offers the best angles of the Appalachian ridges and the Potomac River during the descent into the D.C. area.
Search flights from MDW to IAD
Chicago Skyline
Unmatched views of the Willis Tower and the downtown Loop area immediately after takeoff.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
A sweeping view of the Indiana Dunes and the southern bend of the Great Lake.
South Bend
Clear views of the University of Notre Dame campus and the iconic football stadium.
Appalachian Ridges
Stunning geometric patterns of the long, parallel mountain ridges in Pennsylvania.
Potomac River
The winding river valley that defines the border between Maryland and West Virginia.
Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to have the sun at your back while viewing the Chicago skyline. During the final 20 minutes of flight, keep your camera ready for the dramatic transition from the Appalachian mountains to the coastal plain.
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Industrial Gary
A fascinating look at the massive steel mills and heavy industry of northern Indiana.
Allegheny Plateau
Vast stretches of forested rolling hills and deep river valleys across West Virginia.
Shenandoah Valley
The expansive, lush agricultural valley located between the Allegheny and Blue Ridge mountains.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Beautiful views of the hazy blue peaks during the descent into the Virginia piedmont.
Virginia Horse Country
The sprawling estates and manicured horse farms of Loudoun County just before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the mountains. This side also offers a better view of the Shenandoah National Park's northern reaches if the flight path takes a southerly approach into Dulles.
Book Hotels in WashingtonDistance: 927 km (576 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 33 min
Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: Domestic
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