About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to San Diego. Right side captures the most dramatic geography: Chicago's urban landscape and lakefront on departure, then the Sierra Nevada and Mojave Desert during cruise, and finally the California coast approaching San Diego. Left side sees mostly inland desert and mountains from a distance.
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 as you climb out westbound. Midway typically departs runways 4L/4R or 13L/13R; westbound departures (4L/4R) give the best view of downtown Chicago and the lakefront during initial climb. Notable sights include: Chicago downtown skyline (Willis Tower, Trump Tower visible), Lake Michigan shoreline, Bridgeport neighborhood industrial areas, Des Plaines River valley.
What can I see when landing at San Diego International Lindbergh Fld in San Diego?
When landing at San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side seats offer views of San Diego Bay, the Coronado Peninsula, and the Pacific coastline during approach. Lindbergh typically lands on runways 9 or 27; eastbound approaches (runway 9) position the left side to see the bay, naval installations, and the distinctive Coronado Bridge spanning the bay entrance. Notable sights include: San Diego Bay (deep blue water), Coronado Peninsula and Hotel del Coronado, Coronado Bridge (distinctive arch), Point Loma headlands and lighthouse.
How long is the flight from Chicago to San Diego?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to San Diego International Lindbergh Fld (SAN) takes Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Chicago to San Diego flight path pass over?
After climbing out of Chicago, the flight tracks southwest over central Illinois farmland, then crosses the Mississippi River valley near St. Louis (visible from both sides at cruise altitude). Continuing southwest, you'll see the Ozark Plateau's rolling terrain in Missouri and Oklahoma. Over the Texas Panhandle and New Mexico, the High Plains transition to high desert. The Rocky Mountains and Sierra Madre Oriental appear as distant ridges on the left (south) side. As you approach California, the San Bernardino Mountains and San Gabriel Mountains become prominent on the right (north) side during descent. The Mojave Desert's tan, sparse landscape dominates the final 200 miles before reaching the California coast.