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SFO → MDW
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the southern Sierra Nevada, the dramatic red rock formations of the Southwest, and the iconic Chicago skyline during the final descent into Midway.
Search flights from SFO to MDW
Yosemite National Park
A stunning high-altitude look at the granite cliffs, domes, and glacial valleys of the central Sierra Nevada.
Colorado Plateau
Spectacular views of winding river systems and the vibrant orange canyons of southern Utah and northern Arizona.
Southern Rockies
Soar over the high peaks of the Colorado Rockies, often snow-capped well into the summer months.
Chicago Skyline
The highlight of the route, featuring the Willis Tower and the dense skyscrapers of the Loop during the MDW approach.
The right side is essential for the famous 'Chicago Skyline' approach into Midway. Choose a late afternoon flight to see the western canyons in the golden hour, or a night flight to see the grid of Chicago lights.
Book Hotels in ChicagoNorthern Sierra & Tahoe
Breathtaking views of the rugged northern Sierra range and the deep blue of Lake Tahoe shortly after departure.
Great Salt Lake
The vast, shimmering turquoise expanse of Utah's inland sea and the surrounding white salt flats.
Great Plains Pattern
Infinite green and gold geometric patterns created by center-pivot irrigation across Nebraska and Iowa.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
Views of the shoreline and deep blue waters as the aircraft maneuvers for the final approach into Chicago.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare while crossing the desert. This side is also excellent for viewing the Great Salt Lake and the northern transition into the Midwest plains.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,977 km (1,850 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 58 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Route Type: Domestic
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