Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Kona to Chicago. The right side wins overall because the volcanic landscape and Big Island scenery at takeoff from Kona is more visually distinctive and dramatic than the landing approach to Chicago. While Chicago's lakefront is impressive, the Hawaiian volcanic terrain is more unique and memorable for most passengers.

During takeoff from Kona International At Keahole (KOA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Big Island's dramatic volcanic landscape immediately after departure. You'll see Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa rising prominently as the aircraft climbs northwest out of Kona, with the Kona coast and Pacific Ocean stretching below. Notable sights include: Mauna Kea (13,796 ft), Mauna Loa (13,681 ft), Hualālai volcano, Kona coast and Kailua-Kona town.

When landing at Chicago Midway International (MDW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during approach to Chicago. You'll see Lake Michigan's shoreline, the Chicago skyline with its distinctive downtown towers, and the grid of neighborhoods spreading inland from the lakefront as you descend toward Midway. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, Lake Shore Drive corridor, Midway's surrounding neighborhoods.

The flight from Kona International At Keahole (KOA) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes 5h 15m.

The flight path crosses the central United States over the Rocky Mountain region (visible around 2.5 hours into flight), including the Colorado Plateau and Great Plains. You'll pass over or near the Sierra Nevada and Great Basin if tracking slightly north of the direct great-circle route. The Mississippi River valley becomes visible in the final 90 minutes of flight as you approach the Midwest.