Loading map...
SMF → MDW
Which side of the plane to sit from Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento) to Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior sequence of landmarks, starting with an immediate view of Lake Tahoe, traversing the heart of the Colorado Rockies, and concluding with a spectacular view of the Chicago skyline on the approach to Midway.
Search flights from SMF to MDW
Lake Tahoe
A stunning aerial perspective of the deep blue alpine lake and Emerald Bay minutes after departure.
Utah Red Rocks
High-altitude views of the rugged desert terrain and deep canyons of eastern Utah.
Front Range Rockies
Crossing the heart of the Colorado Rocky Mountains with views of numerous 14,000-foot peaks.
The Corn Belt
The geometric perfection of center-pivot irrigation circles across the fertile Midwestern soil.
Chicago Skyline
Iconic views of the Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, and Lake Michigan during the final approach to MDW.
The right side is the premier choice for this route. Ensure you are looking out the window within the first 20 minutes to catch Lake Tahoe. On the arrival into MDW, the flight path typically tracks south of the city, placing the magnificent Chicago skyline and Navy Pier directly out the right window. Be aware that morning flights will have direct sun on this side.
Book Hotels in ChicagoNorthern Sierras
Early flight views of snow-capped peaks and the Lassen National Forest area in Northern California.
Great Salt Lake
Expansive views of the salt flats and the distinct color variations of the water in northern Utah.
Great Plains
Endless agricultural quilt-work patterns and geometric fields across Nebraska and Iowa.
Mississippi River
Crossing the massive waterway that serves as the primary drainage for North America.
Northern Chicago
Dense urban sprawl and the northern suburbs during the final descent into the Chicago area.
Sit on the left for softer, indirect light during the day, which is ideal for glare-free photography. You will get the best look at the Great Salt Lake's northern edge. In winter, this side offers great views of snow coverage across the northern plains without the sun's reflection on the wing.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,874 km (1,786 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 50 min
Departure: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)
Arrival: MDW (41.785999, -87.752403)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.