Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan) that outweighs the right side's landing advantage. The full flight experience favors the left: dramatic urban departure over a major American city and iconic waterfront, followed by 8+ hours of transatlantic cruise (both sides equally unspectacular over open ocean), then a less visually distinctive approach to Athens. Right side's landing views of Greek islands and the Aegean are notable but cannot overcome the left side's strong takeoff sequence.
Flown MDW to ATH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Athens is 5,453 miles (8,775 km), a flight of about 9 hours 15 minutes.
Transatlantic crossing over the North Atlantic with no significant landmarks visible from cruise altitude; the route passes north of the Azores and south of Iceland. Upon reaching European airspace, passengers see the Irish coast (if routed via Ireland), then the United Kingdom, English Channel, and continental Europe. The Alps appear as a distant mountain range during descent into southern Europe. The Adriatic Sea and Balkan peninsula are visible during the final descent phase toward Athens. The approach into Athens crosses the Aegean Sea with numerous Greek islands visible, particularly the Cyclades and islands near the Athenian coast.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MDW
LEFTLeft side captures Chicago's downtown skyline and Lake Michigan waterfront during initial climb. Right side faces inland toward flat suburban sprawl with minimal visual interest.
Landing at ATH
RIGHTRight side offers dramatic approach over the Aegean Sea with Greek islands and the Athenian coastline. Left side shows only open Mediterranean water and distant mainland. Athens airport typically uses runway 03L for arrivals (heading northeast), positioning right-side passengers to see the island-studded approach and coastal geography.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Athens. Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan) that outweighs the right side's landing advantage. The full flight experience favors the left: dramatic urban departure over a major American city and iconic waterfront, followed by 8+ hours of transatlantic cruise (both sides equally unspectacular over open ocean), then a less visually distinctive approach to Athens. Right side's landing views of Greek islands and the Aegean are notable but cannot overcome the left side's strong takeoff sequence.
What can I see during takeoff from Chicago Midway International in Chicago?
During takeoff from Chicago Midway International (MDW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Chicago's downtown skyline and Lake Michigan waterfront during initial climb. Right side faces inland toward flat suburban sprawl with minimal visual interest. Notable sights include: Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, Lake Michigan shoreline, Grant Park lakefront.
What can I see when landing at Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos in Athens?
When landing at Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers dramatic approach over the Aegean Sea with Greek islands and the Athenian coastline. Left side shows only open Mediterranean water and distant mainland. Athens airport typically uses runway 03L for arrivals (heading northeast), positioning right-side passengers to see the island-studded approach and coastal geography. Notable sights include: Aegean Sea with scattered Greek islands, Athenian coastline and Mount Hymettus, Athens metropolitan area sprawl.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Athens?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) 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 Chicago to Athens flight path pass over?
Transatlantic crossing over the North Atlantic with no significant landmarks visible from cruise altitude; the route passes north of the Azores and south of Iceland. Upon reaching European airspace, passengers see the Irish coast (if routed via Ireland), then the United Kingdom, English Channel, and continental Europe. The Alps appear as a distant mountain range during descent into southern Europe. The Adriatic Sea and Balkan peninsula are visible during the final descent phase toward Athens. The approach into Athens crosses the Aegean Sea with numerous Greek islands visible, particularly the Cyclades and islands near the Athenian coast.