Loading map...
MDW → PIT
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago) to Pittsburgh International Airport (Pittsburgh)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an iconic departure view of the Chicago skyline and the Lake Michigan shoreline, followed by potential views of the Lake Erie coast and northern Ohio urban centers.
Search flights from MDW to PIT
Chicago Skyline
Breathtaking views of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers immediately after departing Midway.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
Aerial perspective of the Indiana Dunes National Park and the deep blue waters of the lake.
South Bend
Visible views of the University of Notre Dame campus and stadium as the flight crosses Indiana.
Lake Erie Horizon
On clear days, the southern shore of Lake Erie and the city of Toledo are visible to the north.
Sit on the left for the most dramatic departure; if the plane takes off towards the east, you will pass directly south of the Loop. Early morning flights are best as the sun illuminates the Chicago skyline from the east. In winter, look for unique shelf ice patterns along the lakefront.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United States
Midwestern Grids
The quintessential geometric patterns of Indiana and Ohio's agricultural heartland.
Ohio River Tributaries
Meandering rivers and industrial valleys as the plane approaches the Pennsylvania border.
Appalachian Foothills
The terrain begins to ripple into the rolling hills of the Allegheny Plateau near Pittsburgh.
The Three Rivers
Views of the Ohio River valley leading toward the confluence in downtown Pittsburgh during descent.
The right side is better for observing the transition from flat prairie to the rugged Appalachian foothills. Late afternoon flights provide a beautiful warm glow over the rural landscape. During the descent into PIT, watch for the winding Ohio River which serves as a primary navigational landmark.
Book Hotels in PittsburghDistance: 646 km (401 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min
Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Arrival: PIT (40.49150085, -80.23290253)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.