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RDU → MDW
Which side of the plane to sit from Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham) to Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this route as it offers the most direct views of the Appalachian ridges and the iconic Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan coastline during the descent into Midway.
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RTP Campuses
View the massive, modern architecture of the Research Triangle Park corporate campuses nestled in the pines.
Appalachian Ridges
Dramatic views of the unique 'Ridge and Valley' geological formations of West Virginia and Maryland.
Gary Industrial Works
The massive steel mills and industrial docks of Gary, Indiana, visible as the plane nears Lake Michigan.
Lake Michigan Coastline
The stark transition from the deep blue waters of the lake to the sandy dunes and urban shoreline.
Chicago Skyline
Spectacular views of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers, especially if the pilot banks over the lake for a Runway 22L or 31C arrival.
The right side is the 'scenic side' for the Chicago arrival. For the best chance of seeing the skyline, choose a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. Flights arriving at sunset offer a breathtaking view of the city lights reflecting off the lake.
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The Research Triangle
Aerial views of the dense forest canopy and suburban sprawl of Raleigh, Cary, and Chapel Hill shortly after takeoff.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The southern portion of the Appalachian range, featuring rolling peaks and deep green valleys.
The Ohio River
The wide, winding waterway that serves as the natural border between Kentucky, West Virginia, and Ohio.
Indiana Farmland
A geometric tapestry of green and gold agricultural plots stretching across the Midwestern plains.
South Side Chicago
A close-up view of the historic neighborhoods and urban grid of Chicago's southern districts during the final approach.
Sit on the left for softer morning light during Westbound travel, which highlights the textures of the Appalachian terrain without the glare. This side is also excellent for observing the dense urban density of the Chicago suburbs if the plane approaches from the south.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,016 km (631 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Arrival: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Route Type: Domestic
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