Bangor to Chicago is 972 miles (1,564 km), a flight of about 2 hours 35 minutes.
While takeoff offers coastal Maine scenery, the landing approach into Chicago provides more dramatic and visually distinctive urban and water features. Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline are more impressive than the gradual Maine coastline departure.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Appalachian plateau region of Pennsylvania and Ohio, with the Allegheny Mountains visible during the first half of the flight. The Ohio River valley becomes prominent in the middle section. As the flight progresses westward, the terrain gradually flattens into the agricultural plains of Indiana and Illinois, with scattered lakes and river systems visible. The Great Lakes region transitions to Midwest farmland with geometric field patterns becoming increasingly visible.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from BGR
LEFTLeft seats offer views of Penobscot Bay and the Maine coastline during initial climb. The Atlantic Ocean and rocky Maine coast are prominent features visible for the first 10-15 minutes of flight.
Landing at MDW
RIGHTRight seats provide views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's downtown skyline during approach. The lake's vast expanse and the city's distinctive high-rise cluster are striking visual landmarks during descent into Midway.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bangor International (BGR) to Chicago Midway International (MDW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Bangor to Chicago. While takeoff offers coastal Maine scenery, the landing approach into Chicago provides more dramatic and visually distinctive urban and water features. Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline are more impressive than the gradual Maine coastline departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Bangor International in Bangor?
During takeoff from Bangor International (BGR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left seats offer views of Penobscot Bay and the Maine coastline during initial climb. The Atlantic Ocean and rocky Maine coast are prominent features visible for the first 10-15 minutes of flight. Notable sights include: Penobscot Bay, Atlantic coastline, Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park region.
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 seats provide views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's downtown skyline during approach. The lake's vast expanse and the city's distinctive high-rise cluster are striking visual landmarks during descent into Midway. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline, Chicago River, Illinois prairie.
How long is the flight from Bangor to Chicago?
The flight from Bangor International (BGR) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes about 2 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 972 miles (1,564 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Bangor to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Appalachian plateau region of Pennsylvania and Ohio, with the Allegheny Mountains visible during the first half of the flight. The Ohio River valley becomes prominent in the middle section. As the flight progresses westward, the terrain gradually flattens into the agricultural plains of Indiana and Illinois, with scattered lakes and river systems visible. The Great Lakes region transitions to Midwest farmland with geometric field patterns becoming increasingly visible.