About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Austin Bergstrom International (AUS)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Austin. While takeoff favors the right for Chicago views, the landing approach to Austin is more visually rewarding and comprises the final memorable impression. Left-side seats capture Lady Bird Lake, downtown Austin, and the Hill Country's distinctive terrain during descent—more dramatic and geographically specific than the departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Chicago Midway International in Chicago?
During takeoff from Chicago Midway International (MDW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan during the initial climb-out. Midway typically departs runways 31L/31R or 4L/4R; runway 31 departures heading northwest offer the best downtown Chicago views before banking south toward Austin. Notable sights include: Chicago downtown skyline (Willis Tower, Trump Tower visible in cluster), Lake Michigan shoreline, Lakeshore Drive corridor, industrial areas of southwest Chicago.
What can I see when landing at Austin Bergstrom International in Austin?
When landing at Austin Bergstrom International (AUS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Colorado River, Lady Bird Lake, and downtown Austin during descent and approach. Austin typically lands on runways 17L/17R or 1L/1R; runway 17 approaches from the north offer excellent views of the city center and surrounding Hill Country terrain. Notable sights include: Lady Bird Lake (Town Lake) with downtown Austin skyline, Colorado River, Hill Country rolling terrain, Barton Springs area.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Austin?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) takes Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours.
What does the Chicago to Austin flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Illinois (flat agricultural terrain with sparse towns), then transitions into Missouri's rolling Ozark foothills. The Mississippi River is visible as a major landmark roughly 1.5 hours into the flight. Southern Missouri and northern Arkansas show increasing topographic relief. The flight then crosses into Texas, with the terrain gradually becoming more rolling and forested as it approaches the Hill Country region surrounding Austin.