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MSP → MDW
Which side of the plane to sit from Minneapolis-St Paul International/Wold-Chamberlain Airport (Minneapolis) to Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this short hop because it offers the iconic view of the Chicago skyline and the Lake Michigan shoreline during the typical arrival sequence into Midway.
Search flights from MSP to MDW
Minneapolis Skyline
Excellent views of downtown Minneapolis and the US Bank Stadium shortly after departure from MSP.
Mississippi River
A clear view of the winding river valley and the limestone bluffs marking the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Madison & Isthmus
On clear days, you can spot the Wisconsin State Capitol nestled between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.
Lake Michigan Coastline
As the plane descends, you track along the stunning blue waters and sandy beaches of the Illinois shoreline.
Chicago Skyline
The premier highlight; enjoy a spectacular panorama of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers during the base leg of the approach.
Book a window seat on the left (A) for the best chance to see the Chicago skyline. Most MDW arrivals fly south over Lake Michigan before turning west into the airport, putting the city right out your window. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the skyline from the east.
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Midwest Patchwork
A perfect grid of agricultural fields displaying various shades of green and gold depending on the season.
Rochester Area
Aerial perspective of southern Minnesota's rolling hills and the distant cityscape of Rochester.
Rock River Valley
The flight path often crosses this scenic waterway near Rockford, Illinois, surrounded by lush forest patches.
Chicagoland Sprawl
An impressive view of the dense, unending residential grids and highways that define the western Chicago suburbs.
Choose the right side (F) for sunset views on evening flights. While you miss the direct lakefront, you get a great sense of the vastness of the American heartland. Keep an eye out for other aircraft descending into O'Hare, which often fly parallel to this route.
Book Hotels in ChicagoDistance: 560 km (348 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 56 min
Departure: MSP (44.882, -93.221802)
Arrival: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Route Type: Domestic
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