While takeoff favors the right for Lake Michigan, the landing approach into Pittsburgh offers more dramatic and geographically significant views from the left side—the three-river junction and downtown skyline are iconic and clearly visible during descent. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
Flown MDW to PIT? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Pittsburgh is 401 miles (646 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Ohio, passing east of Columbus and west of the Appalachian foothills. The terrain transitions from flat Midwestern plains to rolling hills as you approach Pennsylvania. The Ohio River becomes visible in the final 30 minutes of flight, snaking through the landscape as a reference point for Pittsburgh's approach corridor.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MDW
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan during the initial climb. Midway typically departs runways 31L/31R or 4L/4R; eastbound departures on 31L/31R provide the best Lake Michigan views as you climb over the southwest side of the city.
Landing at PIT
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of the Allegheny River, downtown Pittsburgh, and the Ohio River confluence during approach. Pittsburgh International typically uses runways 28L/28R for westbound arrivals; left-side descents provide excellent views of the Golden Triangle district and the three-river junction that defines the city's geography.
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 Pittsburgh International (PIT)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Pittsburgh. While takeoff favors the right for Lake Michigan, the landing approach into Pittsburgh offers more dramatic and geographically significant views from the left side—the three-river junction and downtown skyline are iconic and clearly visible during descent. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
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 capture the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan during the initial climb. Midway typically departs runways 31L/31R or 4L/4R; eastbound departures on 31L/31R provide the best Lake Michigan views as you climb over the southwest side of the city. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (immediate eastern edge), Chicago downtown skyline (Willis Tower visible in the distance), Bridgeport neighborhood industrial areas, Des Plaines River valley.
What can I see when landing at Pittsburgh International in Pittsburgh?
When landing at Pittsburgh International (PIT), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the Allegheny River, downtown Pittsburgh, and the Ohio River confluence during approach. Pittsburgh International typically uses runways 28L/28R for westbound arrivals; left-side descents provide excellent views of the Golden Triangle district and the three-river junction that defines the city's geography. Notable sights include: Allegheny River (prominent in approach corridor), Ohio River (visible to the south), Monongahela River (southern approach), downtown Pittsburgh Golden Triangle district.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Pittsburgh?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Pittsburgh International (PIT) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 401 miles (646 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Pittsburgh flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Ohio, passing east of Columbus and west of the Appalachian foothills. The terrain transitions from flat Midwestern plains to rolling hills as you approach Pennsylvania. The Ohio River becomes visible in the final 30 minutes of flight, snaking through the landscape as a reference point for Pittsburgh's approach corridor.