Right side scores higher (3.0 vs 2.5) due to superior landing approach scenery. While Athens departure offers dramatic harbor and Acropolis views, the transatlantic cruise phase is dominated by 5+ hours of open Atlantic Ocean on both sides, capping the left side's potential. The right side's Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline approach compensates with concentrated urban and water scenery during the critical final descent phase. The full flight favors the right side's landing experience over the left side's takeoff advantage.
Flown ATH to MDW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Athens to Chicago is 5,453 miles (8,775 km), a flight of about 9 hours 15 minutes.
North Atlantic Ocean (5+ hours of open water with no visible landmarks); Greenland ice sheet and Davis Strait visible on northbound routing at cruise altitude; Canadian Arctic archipelago islands (Baffin Island, Devon Island) on far northern routes; transition to North American continent over Hudson Bay or northern Quebec; Great Lakes region (Lake Superior, Lake Michigan) during descent into Chicago
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ATH
LEFTLeft side captures Athens' harbor and Saronic Gulf immediately after departure. Aircraft climbing northeast (runway 03) reveal the Acropolis, port facilities at Piraeus, and the Aegean coastline with islands dotting the horizon. Right side shows inland Attica plains and mountains receding northward—less dramatic urban and maritime scenery.
Landing at MDW
RIGHTRight side (north/northwest of Chicago) offers superior approach scenery. Descending toward runway 13 or 04 (typical easterly/northeasterly approaches), the right side reveals Lake Michigan's shoreline, downtown Chicago's skyline, and the urban grid of the North Shore. Left side shows western suburbs and flat Illinois plains—minimal visual interest during final descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Chicago Midway International (MDW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Athens to Chicago. Right side scores higher (3.0 vs 2.5) due to superior landing approach scenery. While Athens departure offers dramatic harbor and Acropolis views, the transatlantic cruise phase is dominated by 5+ hours of open Atlantic Ocean on both sides, capping the left side's potential. The right side's Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline approach compensates with concentrated urban and water scenery during the critical final descent phase. The full flight favors the right side's landing experience over the left side's takeoff advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos in Athens?
During takeoff from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Athens' harbor and Saronic Gulf immediately after departure. Aircraft climbing northeast (runway 03) reveal the Acropolis, port facilities at Piraeus, and the Aegean coastline with islands dotting the horizon. Right side shows inland Attica plains and mountains receding northward—less dramatic urban and maritime scenery. Notable sights include: Acropolis and Athens city center, Piraeus harbor with container terminals, Saronic Gulf coastline, Aegean Sea with visible islands (Salamis, Aegina).
What can I see when landing at Chicago Midway International in Chicago?
When landing at Chicago Midway International (MDW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (north/northwest of Chicago) offers superior approach scenery. Descending toward runway 13 or 04 (typical easterly/northeasterly approaches), the right side reveals Lake Michigan's shoreline, downtown Chicago's skyline, and the urban grid of the North Shore. Left side shows western suburbs and flat Illinois plains—minimal visual interest during final descent. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline and beaches, downtown Chicago skyline with Willis Tower and John Hancock Center, Grant Park and lakefront parks, North Shore residential areas.
How long is the flight from Athens to Chicago?
The flight from Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes about 9 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,453 miles (8,775 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Athens to Chicago flight path pass over?
North Atlantic Ocean (5+ hours of open water with no visible landmarks); Greenland ice sheet and Davis Strait visible on northbound routing at cruise altitude; Canadian Arctic archipelago islands (Baffin Island, Devon Island) on far northern routes; transition to North American continent over Hudson Bay or northern Quebec; Great Lakes region (Lake Superior, Lake Michigan) during descent into Chicago