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MSY → MDW
Which side of the plane to sit from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (New Orleans) to Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior experience, featuring a clear view of the New Orleans skyline on departure and the iconic Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline during the approach into Midway.
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New Orleans Skyline
A direct view of the Central Business District, the French Quarter, and the Superdome shortly after takeoff.
Pontchartrain Causeway
The world's longest bridge over water is clearly visible as it spans the center of the lake.
Ohio River Crossing
The massive Ohio River serves as a major geographical landmark near the Illinois-Kentucky border.
Chicago Skyline
Unmatched views of the Willis Tower and the dense downtown high-rises when the flight approaches MDW from the lake.
This is the best side for photography. On arrival into MDW, planes often loop over Lake Michigan, offering a spectacular panoramic view of the Chicago lakefront. For the most dramatic experience, choose a night flight to see the 'grid' of Chicago lights and the glowing New Orleans skyline.
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Louisiana Wetlands
Aerial views of the bayous, marshes, and the intricate drainage systems surrounding New Orleans.
Lake Pontchartrain
The vast expanse of the lake's western edge and the Bonnet Carré Spillway.
Shawnee National Forest
Rolling hills and dense woodlands of Southern Illinois, a scenic break from the agricultural plains.
Midwestern Heartland
The classic American 'checkerboard' landscape of vast corn and soybean fields across Illinois.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the sun. It provides a better look at the winding path of the Mississippi River during the initial climb out of MSY. Keep an eye out for the suburban sprawl of Naperville and Aurora during the descent.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,330 km (826 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 46 min
Departure: MSY (29.99340057373047, -90.25800323486328)
Arrival: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Route Type: Domestic
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