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MDW → SJC
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago) to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (San Jose)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective for the initial departure views of the Chicago skyline, the expansive Great Salt Lake, and the iconic descent past Lake Tahoe into the San Francisco Bay Area.
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Chicago Skyline
A stunning view of the Willis Tower and downtown Chicago shortly after takeoff from Midway.
Great Salt Lake
The vibrant, contrasting colors of the mineral-rich waters and salt flats of northern Utah.
Lake Tahoe
One of the flight's highlights, offering a deep blue view of the lake nestled in the Sierra Nevada.
Mount Hamilton
During the descent into SJC, look for the Lick Observatory perched atop the Diablo Range.
Silicon Valley
Aerial views of major tech campuses and the dense urban development of the South Bay.
The right side is ideal for morning flights as the sun remains on the opposite side. Be ready with your camera about 45 minutes before landing to capture the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe. On departure, if the wind is from the west, the right side typically offers the best look back at the Loop.
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Chicago Suburbs
Expansive views of the dense Chicago grid and the sprawling suburban landscape of Illinois.
Mississippi River
A clear view of the winding river as you cross the border between Illinois and Iowa.
Front Range Rockies
Direct views of the highest peaks in Colorado, often including snow-capped summits of the southern Rockies.
Great Basin
The stark, rippled landscape of the Nevada desert with its unique basin and range topography.
Southern Sierras
Dramatic views of the high Sierra Nevada mountain range, occasionally providing glimpses toward Yosemite.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun, which can make photography difficult. This side offers excellent views of the rugged desert landscapes and the agricultural patterns of the Central Valley during the final approach.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,950 km (1,833 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 56 min
Departure: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Arrival: SJC (37.362598, -121.929001)
Route Type: Domestic
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