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PDX → MDW
Which side of the plane to sit from Portland International Airport (Portland) to Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the majestic northern Cascades, the vast expanse of Yellowstone National Park, and typically provides the best vantage point for the Chicago skyline on approach to Midway.
Mount Adams & St. Helens
Shortly after takeoff, look north to see these massive snow-capped volcanic peaks rising above the clouds.
Yellowstone Region
Cruising over Wyoming, you can often spot the steam from geothermal basins and the deep blue of Yellowstone Lake.
Missouri River
Witness the dramatic bends and silver ribbons of the longest river in North America as you cross into the Great Plains.
Chicago Skyline
On the standard approach to MDW, the left side usually offers a panoramic view of the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and for the highest probability of seeing the iconic Chicago skyline during the final descent. During winter, look for the stark contrast of the Badlands' snow-dusted formations if the flight path tracks slightly north.
Mount Hood
Portland's backyard volcano is often visible in incredible detail immediately after departure from PDX.
Snake River Canyon
Visible as you cross Idaho, the deep carvings of the river through the basalt plateau are striking from altitude.
The Grand Tetons
The sharp, jagged peaks of the Teton Range are a highlight as you traverse the Wyoming border.
Geometric Farmland
The perfectly circular 'center-pivot' irrigation patterns across Nebraska and Iowa create a mesmerizing green and gold quilt.
The right side is ideal for catching a close-up of Mount Hood just minutes into the flight. For late afternoon departures, this side will experience significant glare, so keep window shades partially closed until the sun begins to set for the best photography conditions over the Rockies.
Distance: 2,811 km (1,747 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 45 min
Departure: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)
Arrival: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Route Type: Domestic
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