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MDW → ONT
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago) to Ontario International Airport (Ontario)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning views of the American West, the right side is generally superior for its perspective of the northern Rocky Mountains and a spectacular close-up of the San Gabriel Mountains during the descent into Ontario.
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Lake Michigan
Immediate views of the lakefront and the Indiana Dunes if the departure patterns loop north.
Mississippi River
A clear view of the winding river border between Illinois and Iowa shortly after reaching cruising altitude.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Breathtaking views of the highest peaks in Colorado, including Longs Peak and the Continental Divide.
Arches & Canyonlands
Aerial perspectives of the red rock formations and deep canyons of eastern Utah.
Mount San Antonio
Also known as Mt. Baldy, this massive peak dominates the window view as you enter the Los Angeles basin.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. For the best experience, choose a seat behind the wing to capture the scale of the Colorado Rockies. During the approach into ONT, the aircraft often flies parallel to the San Gabriel Mountains, offering an intimate look at the rugged terrain just before landing.
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Chicago Skyline
Upon departure from MDW, views of the Sears (Willis) Tower and the dense urban sprawl of the South Side.
Southern Rockies
Dramatic views of the Colorado peaks, including Pikes Peak and the Sangre de Cristo Range if on a southern track.
Painted Desert
The colorful, stratified layers of the high desert across Arizona and New Mexico.
Mojave Desert
Expansive views of the arid California desert and the distinctive Joshua tree landscapes.
Big Bear Lake
As the plane begins its final descent, look for the blue waters of Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Sit on the left if you are on a morning flight to avoid the direct glare of the sun, which will be on the left during the early stages of the flight but moves behind as you head west. It is excellent for spotting the southern rim of the Grand Canyon in the distance if the pilot takes a more southerly route.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,740 km (1,703 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 39 min
Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Arrival: ONT (34.05599975585937, -117.60099792480467)
Route Type: Domestic
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