Right-side seats deliver scenic value on both takeoff and landing. You'll see Lake Michigan and Chicago's urban landscape during climb, then the Tennessee River and Birmingham's distinctive geography during descent—making it the superior choice for this route.
Flown MDW to BHM? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Birmingham is 571 miles (919 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Indiana and northern Alabama. Notable features include the Ohio River valley (visible from altitude as a darker linear feature in southern Indiana), the Cumberland Plateau's eastern edge approaching Alabama, and scattered lakes and reservoirs throughout the route. The terrain transitions from flat Midwestern plains to rolling hills and forested ridges as you approach Birmingham.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MDW
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Lake Michigan's shoreline and the Chicago metropolitan area as you climb out. The lake's eastern edge and downtown Chicago's grid pattern are clearly visible during the initial climb northeastward before the aircraft turns south toward Birmingham.
Landing at BHM
RIGHTRight-side seats provide excellent views of the Tennessee River and Birmingham's urban core during descent. The river's distinctive meanders and the city's industrial and downtown areas are clearly visible on approach from the north.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Birmingham International (BHM)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Birmingham. Right-side seats deliver scenic value on both takeoff and landing. You'll see Lake Michigan and Chicago's urban landscape during climb, then the Tennessee River and Birmingham's distinctive geography during descent—making it the superior choice for this route.
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 offer views of Lake Michigan's shoreline and the Chicago metropolitan area as you climb out. The lake's eastern edge and downtown Chicago's grid pattern are clearly visible during the initial climb northeastward before the aircraft turns south toward Birmingham. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline, Illinois River valley to the southwest.
What can I see when landing at Birmingham International in Birmingham?
When landing at Birmingham International (BHM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats provide excellent views of the Tennessee River and Birmingham's urban core during descent. The river's distinctive meanders and the city's industrial and downtown areas are clearly visible on approach from the north. Notable sights include: Tennessee River, Birmingham downtown and industrial districts, Red Mountain (ridge feature), Vulcan Park area.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Birmingham?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Birmingham International (BHM) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 571 miles (919 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Birmingham flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Indiana and northern Alabama. Notable features include the Ohio River valley (visible from altitude as a darker linear feature in southern Indiana), the Cumberland Plateau's eastern edge approaching Alabama, and scattered lakes and reservoirs throughout the route. The terrain transitions from flat Midwestern plains to rolling hills and forested ridges as you approach Birmingham.