While the left side offers excellent Lake Michigan views on departure, the right side provides superior scenery for the majority of the transatlantic flight and the entire London approach. The right side faces north across the Atlantic, offering views of Greenland's glaciers and ice sheets during the mid-flight portion, plus the dramatic Thames meanders and London approach.
Flown MDW to LHR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to London is 3,945 miles (6,349 km), a flight of about 8 hours 30 minutes.
Greenland's eastern ice sheet and glaciers (visible on right side around 4-5 hours into flight at cruise altitude), the Atlantic Ocean with occasional icebergs near Greenland, the Irish Sea approaching the UK, and the Welsh coastline before reaching England
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MDW
LEFTLeft side offers views of Lake Michigan immediately after departure, with the Chicago skyline visible to the northeast. The aircraft climbs northwestward over the lake, providing extended water views before heading east over Indiana.
Landing at LHR
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Thames River, London's urban sprawl, and the distinctive meanders of the river as the aircraft descends into Heathrow. You'll see the city's major landmarks and suburban development spreading across the landscape.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to London. While the left side offers excellent Lake Michigan views on departure, the right side provides superior scenery for the majority of the transatlantic flight and the entire London approach. The right side faces north across the Atlantic, offering views of Greenland's glaciers and ice sheets during the mid-flight portion, plus the dramatic Thames meanders and London approach.
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 offers views of Lake Michigan immediately after departure, with the Chicago skyline visible to the northeast. The aircraft climbs northwestward over the lake, providing extended water views before heading east over Indiana. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline, Indiana coastline, Calumet River industrial corridor.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Thames River, London's urban sprawl, and the distinctive meanders of the river as the aircraft descends into Heathrow. You'll see the city's major landmarks and suburban development spreading across the landscape. Notable sights include: Thames River and its meanders, London city center (visible as dense urban grid), Heathrow Airport runways, Windsor Castle area to the west.
How long is the flight from Chicago to London?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Heathrow (LHR) takes about 8 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,945 miles (6,349 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to London flight path pass over?
Greenland's eastern ice sheet and glaciers (visible on right side around 4-5 hours into flight at cruise altitude), the Atlantic Ocean with occasional icebergs near Greenland, the Irish Sea approaching the UK, and the Welsh coastline before reaching England