About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from La Guardia (LGA) to Chicago Midway International (MDW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from New York to Chicago. While takeoff offers excellent Manhattan views from the left, the landing approach provides superior geography—Lake Michigan, the Chicago skyline, and the approach over the city's varied landscape are more visually distinctive than the departure corridor. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic portion of the journey.
What can I see during takeoff from La Guardia in New York?
During takeoff from La Guardia (LGA), sit on the Left side for the best views. LGA typically departs eastbound (Runways 04/22), and left-side seats face north toward the East River, Manhattan skyline, and the Bronx. You'll see the full Manhattan profile and the Hudson River valley opening northward. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline (Empire State Building, Chrysler Building visible as points in the urban grid), East River, Bronx waterfront, Hudson River to the west.
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. Midway uses Runways 04L/04R and 13L/13R depending on wind. On approach from the east (typical), right-side seats face south and southwest toward the Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan, and the approach path over the city's south and west sides. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (eastern boundary), Chicago downtown skyline (Willis Tower, John Hancock Center), Pilsen and Little Village neighborhoods, Des Plaines River valley.
How long is the flight from New York to Chicago?
The flight from La Guardia (LGA) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes Approximately 2 hours 50 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes.
What does the New York to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses Pennsylvania (Appalachian ridges visible as subtle elevation changes and forested areas around 25,000+ feet), then transitions into Ohio and Indiana. The Great Lakes region dominates the latter half—Lake Erie is visible as a large water body on the northern horizon during cruise, and the transition from the Appalachian plateau to the flat Midwestern plains is gradual but noticeable. Indiana's agricultural landscape (rectangular field patterns) becomes dominant in the final 45 minutes before descent into the Chicago area.