The left side wins primarily because of the dramatic Chicago skyline-and-lake view during departure, which outshines the flatter cruise scenery and the more distant, angled skyline glimpse on landing; the right side's Philadelphia approach is scenic but brief and less immersive.
Flown MDW to PHL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Philadelphia is 667 miles (1,073 km), a flight of about 1 hour 55 minutes.
Flat farmland of northern Indiana and Ohio, low rolling hills of the Allegheny Plateau in central Pennsylvania, and glimpses of the Susquehanna River valley before descent into the Philadelphia area
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MDW
LEFTDeparting MDW and turning toward the northeast for the PHL routing, passengers on the left get a clear view of downtown Chicago's skyline and the Lake Michigan shoreline before the aircraft settles onto its eastbound cruise track. This is the most visually striking moment of the whole flight.
Landing at PHL
RIGHTOn final approach into PHL using the westward-facing runways, the turn onto final puts Philadelphia's skyline and the Delaware River off the right side of the aircraft, giving a last good look at the city and waterfront before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Philadelphia International (PHL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Philadelphia. The left side wins primarily because of the dramatic Chicago skyline-and-lake view during departure, which outshines the flatter cruise scenery and the more distant, angled skyline glimpse on landing; the right side's Philadelphia approach is scenic but brief and less immersive.
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. Departing MDW and turning toward the northeast for the PHL routing, passengers on the left get a clear view of downtown Chicago's skyline and the Lake Michigan shoreline before the aircraft settles onto its eastbound cruise track. This is the most visually striking moment of the whole flight. Notable sights include: Chicago skyline (Willis Tower, Loop), Lake Michigan shoreline, Midway's surrounding grid of southwest Chicago neighborhoods.
What can I see when landing at Philadelphia International in Philadelphia?
When landing at Philadelphia International (PHL), sit on the Right side for the best views. On final approach into PHL using the westward-facing runways, the turn onto final puts Philadelphia's skyline and the Delaware River off the right side of the aircraft, giving a last good look at the city and waterfront before touchdown. Notable sights include: Philadelphia skyline (Comcast Center, City Hall), Delaware River, Camden, NJ waterfront.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Philadelphia?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Philadelphia International (PHL) takes about 1 hour 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 667 miles (1,073 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Philadelphia flight path pass over?
Flat farmland of northern Indiana and Ohio, low rolling hills of the Allegheny Plateau in central Pennsylvania, and glimpses of the Susquehanna River valley before descent into the Philadelphia area