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MDW → SAT
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago) to San Antonio International Airport (San Antonio)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the rolling Texas Hill Country during descent and generally enjoys better lighting for photography away from the direct southern sun.
Midway Neighborhoods
A unique, close-up look at the dense grid-patterned streets of Chicago's South Side during the climb.
Lake of the Ozarks
The distinctive serpentine shape of this massive reservoir in Missouri is often visible to the west.
Great Plains Transition
Watch the landscape shift from the lush, green cornfields of Illinois to the more arid ranchlands of Texas.
Red River
The winding, reddish-tinted river that defines the border between Oklahoma and Texas.
Texas Hill Country
Stunning limestone hills and cedar-covered valleys as you descend into the San Antonio area.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid direct sun glare while flying southwest. During the final 20 minutes of the flight, watch for the rugged topography of the Texas Hill Country, which is particularly beautiful during the 'golden hour' before sunset.
Chicago Skyline
Aerial views of the Windy City's skyscrapers and Lake Michigan shortly after takeoff from Midway.
Mississippi River
Crossing the massive waterway near the Illinois and Missouri border, showing the scale of the river system.
Ozark Mountains
Dense forest canopy and rolling hills of southern Missouri and northern Arkansas.
Little Rock
The capital city of Arkansas and the winding Arkansas River visible as you head south.
East Texas Piney Woods
The transition into the lush, green forests of Eastern Texas before reaching the drier plains.
Sit on this side for the best chance to see the Chicago skyline if the plane departs towards the south. Be aware that the sun will be on this side for most of the flight, potentially creating harsh glare and heat during midday hours.
Distance: 1,668 km (1,036 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 13 min
Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Arrival: SAT (29.533700942993164, -98.46980285644533)
Route Type: Domestic
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