While takeoff favors the left (Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan), the landing experience on the right side is significantly more dramatic and scenic. The Thames estuary approach, Canary Wharf's urban density, and the river's distinctive geography create a memorable descent that outweighs the takeoff advantage. Both sides score equally overall, but the landing experience tips the recommendation to the right.
Flown MDW to LCY? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to London is 3,964 miles (6,379 km), a flight of about 7 hours 15 minutes.
Transatlantic crossing over the North Atlantic with no significant terrain features; the route passes north of Ireland and Scotland's western coast (visible on left side during cruise if flying northern track), crosses the Irish Sea, and approaches the UK over Wales or southwest England depending on winds and routing. The North Atlantic itself offers minimal visual interest—primarily open ocean for 5+ hours of the flight.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MDW
LEFTLeft side captures Chicago's urban skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline during climb-out. Right side faces inland toward flat Illinois plains with minimal visual interest.
Landing at LCY
RIGHTRight side offers superior approach views into London City Airport, including the Thames estuary, Canary Wharf district, and the river's distinctive meanders. Left side faces away from the airport approach corridor.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to City (LCY)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to London. While takeoff favors the left (Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan), the landing experience on the right side is significantly more dramatic and scenic. The Thames estuary approach, Canary Wharf's urban density, and the river's distinctive geography create a memorable descent that outweighs the takeoff advantage. Both sides score equally overall, but the landing experience tips the recommendation to the right.
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 urban skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline during climb-out. Right side faces inland toward flat Illinois plains with minimal visual interest. Notable sights include: Chicago downtown skyline (Willis Tower, Lake Point Tower), Lake Michigan shoreline, Grant Park waterfront.
What can I see when landing at City in London?
When landing at City (LCY), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers superior approach views into London City Airport, including the Thames estuary, Canary Wharf district, and the river's distinctive meanders. Left side faces away from the airport approach corridor. Notable sights include: Thames River and estuary, Canary Wharf financial district, Isle of Dogs peninsula, London's East End urban sprawl.
How long is the flight from Chicago to London?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to City (LCY) takes about 7 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,964 miles (6,379 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to London flight path pass over?
Transatlantic crossing over the North Atlantic with no significant terrain features; the route passes north of Ireland and Scotland's western coast (visible on left side during cruise if flying northern track), crosses the Irish Sea, and approaches the UK over Wales or southwest England depending on winds and routing. The North Atlantic itself offers minimal visual interest—primarily open ocean for 5+ hours of the flight.