Both sides score equally low (1.5 each) because this is a short 45-minute flight over flat Midwestern terrain with minimal dramatic geography. However, left side edges ahead slightly due to better Des Moines departure views. The entire route crosses Iowa and Illinois farmland with no mountains, significant water features, or major scenic landmarks visible from cruise altitude. This flight falls squarely in the short-haul flat-terrain category with limited scenic value on either side.
Flown DSM to MDW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Des Moines to Chicago is 305 miles (491 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.
Iowa farmland, Cedar River valley, Illinois prairie, scattered small towns and agricultural infrastructure. No mountains, coastlines, or major natural landmarks visible from cruise altitude along this route.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DSM
LEFTLeft side offers slightly better views of Des Moines urban area during initial climb-out, with the city grid and surrounding Iowa farmland visible. Right side faces open farmland with minimal distinguishing features.
Landing at MDW
RIGHTRight side provides views of Chicago's urban sprawl and Lake Michigan during approach to Midway. Left side faces inland areas with less distinctive features. Midway's location on Chicago's southwest side means the right side captures the city's western neighborhoods and industrial areas.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Des Moines International (DSM) to Chicago Midway International (MDW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Des Moines to Chicago. Both sides score equally low (1.5 each) because this is a short 45-minute flight over flat Midwestern terrain with minimal dramatic geography. However, left side edges ahead slightly due to better Des Moines departure views. The entire route crosses Iowa and Illinois farmland with no mountains, significant water features, or major scenic landmarks visible from cruise altitude. This flight falls squarely in the short-haul flat-terrain category with limited scenic value on either side.
What can I see during takeoff from Des Moines International in Des Moines?
During takeoff from Des Moines International (DSM), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers slightly better views of Des Moines urban area during initial climb-out, with the city grid and surrounding Iowa farmland visible. Right side faces open farmland with minimal distinguishing features. Notable sights include: Des Moines downtown skyline, Des Moines River valley, surrounding agricultural grid pattern.
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 provides views of Chicago's urban sprawl and Lake Michigan during approach to Midway. Left side faces inland areas with less distinctive features. Midway's location on Chicago's southwest side means the right side captures the city's western neighborhoods and industrial areas. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago urban grid, industrial areas southwest of downtown, Midway Airport runways.
How long is the flight from Des Moines to Chicago?
The flight from Des Moines International (DSM) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 305 miles (491 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Des Moines to Chicago flight path pass over?
Iowa farmland, Cedar River valley, Illinois prairie, scattered small towns and agricultural infrastructure. No mountains, coastlines, or major natural landmarks visible from cruise altitude along this route.