While takeoff offers Lake Michigan views, the landing approach into Burbank with San Gabriel Mountain scenery is more visually dramatic and distinctive. Left-side seats capture the mountains' full profile during descent, making this the superior choice for the overall flight.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Great Plains, passing north of the Texas Panhandle and Oklahoma, then enters New Mexico and Arizona. Notable features include the Colorado River visible near the Arizona-California border, and the Mojave Desert's distinctive tan and brown terrain in the final approach to Southern California. The Kaibab Plateau and Grand Canyon region lie to the north of the typical flight corridor but may be visible on clear days from cruising altitude.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Burbank. While takeoff offers Lake Michigan views, the landing approach into Burbank with San Gabriel Mountain scenery is more visually dramatic and distinctive. Left-side seats capture the mountains' full profile during descent, making this the superior choice for the overall flight.
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 and the Chicago shoreline during the initial climb-out westward. The lake's expanse and the contrast between water and urban development create compelling scenery in the first 10-15 minutes of flight. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline, Indiana shoreline to the southeast.
What can I see when landing at Burbank Glendale Pasadena in Burbank?
When landing at Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the San Gabriel Mountains during descent into Burbank. These peaks form a dramatic backdrop to the Los Angeles Basin and are particularly striking in afternoon light as the aircraft descends from the east. Notable sights include: San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles Basin urban sprawl, San Fernando Valley, Burbank airport approach corridor.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Burbank?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Burbank Glendale Pasadena (BUR) takes 4h 15m.
What does the Chicago to Burbank flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Great Plains, passing north of the Texas Panhandle and Oklahoma, then enters New Mexico and Arizona. Notable features include the Colorado River visible near the Arizona-California border, and the Mojave Desert's distinctive tan and brown terrain in the final approach to Southern California. The Kaibab Plateau and Grand Canyon region lie to the north of the typical flight corridor but may be visible on clear days from cruising altitude.