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MKE → BWI
Which side of the plane to sit from General Mitchell International Airport (Milwaukee) to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (Baltimore)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Lake Michigan crossing immediately after takeoff and typically provides a better angle for viewing the Baltimore city skyline and Inner Harbor during the final descent into BWI.
Lake Michigan Crossing
A vast blue expanse immediately following departure from MKE, often showcasing local boat traffic.
Michigan Cities
Aerial views of Grand Rapids and Lansing as the flight path cuts across the Lower Peninsula.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Distant views of the northern Ohio coastline and the islands of Lake Erie.
Allegheny Mountains
The dense, forested ridges of the Appalachian range stretching across Pennsylvania.
Susquehanna River
The wide, shallow waters of one of the oldest rivers in the world winding through PA.
Baltimore Inner Harbor
On many approaches, the left side sees the iconic downtown waterfront and historic ships.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare, as the sun will be on the right. This side is also prime for spotting the Baltimore skyline during standard landings on Runway 10 or 15R. Watch for the 'Key Bridge' ruins and port activity during the final minutes of flight.
Milwaukee Skyline
Views of downtown Milwaukee and the Northwestern Mutual Tower shortly after takeoff.
Chicago Skyline
On clear days, the distant silhouette of Chicago is visible across the southern tip of Lake Michigan.
Midwestern Grids
The intricate patchwork of Ohio and Indiana farmland visible through the middle of the flight.
Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians
Distinctive parallel mountain ridges that define the central Pennsylvania landscape.
Potomac River Valley
Views of the scenic river boundary between Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia.
Howard County Estates
The lush green rolling hills and equestrian farms of suburban Maryland during descent.
The right side is ideal for sunset views on late afternoon or evening flights. It provides a great perspective of the Appalachian 'Ridge and Valley' province's geological folds. Keep your window shade down during morning flights to block intense direct sunlight.
Distance: 1,029 km (639 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: MKE (42.94720077514648, -87.89659881591797)
Arrival: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)
Route Type: Domestic
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