While takeoff offers the Mississippi River's scenic appeal, the landing approach provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery with Lake Michigan's expanse and Chicago's iconic lakefront and skyline. The lake view is more striking than river views during the northbound climb.
Flown MEM to MDW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Memphis to Chicago is 481 miles (774 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Illinois prairie and farmland dominate the central portion of the flight path. The Wabash River may be visible as a thin line in eastern Illinois if flying at lower altitudes during cruise. The transition from Tennessee's forested terrain to Illinois's flat agricultural landscape is gradual but noticeable. No major mountain ranges or dramatic topography interrupt this route—the flight crosses relatively uniform Midwestern terrain.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MEM
RIGHTRight side offers views of the Mississippi River as it flows northward from Memphis, plus the urban sprawl of Memphis itself receding below. The river's distinctive meanders are clearly visible during climb-out.
Landing at MDW
LEFTLeft side provides excellent views of Lake Michigan as you approach Chicago from the south, plus the distinctive grid of Chicago's lakefront neighborhoods and downtown skyline. The lake's blue expanse and the city's urban geometry are striking during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Memphis International (MEM) to Chicago Midway International (MDW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Memphis to Chicago. While takeoff offers the Mississippi River's scenic appeal, the landing approach provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery with Lake Michigan's expanse and Chicago's iconic lakefront and skyline. The lake view is more striking than river views during the northbound climb.
What can I see during takeoff from Memphis International in Memphis?
During takeoff from Memphis International (MEM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers views of the Mississippi River as it flows northward from Memphis, plus the urban sprawl of Memphis itself receding below. The river's distinctive meanders are clearly visible during climb-out. Notable sights include: Mississippi River (northbound channel), Memphis urban area, Wolf River confluence, Shelby Farms reservoir.
What can I see when landing at Chicago Midway International in Chicago?
When landing at Chicago Midway International (MDW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides excellent views of Lake Michigan as you approach Chicago from the south, plus the distinctive grid of Chicago's lakefront neighborhoods and downtown skyline. The lake's blue expanse and the city's urban geometry are striking during descent. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (southern shore), Chicago downtown skyline, Illinois-Indiana border marshlands, Calumet River system.
How long is the flight from Memphis to Chicago?
The flight from Memphis International (MEM) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 481 miles (774 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Memphis to Chicago flight path pass over?
Illinois prairie and farmland dominate the central portion of the flight path. The Wabash River may be visible as a thin line in eastern Illinois if flying at lower altitudes during cruise. The transition from Tennessee's forested terrain to Illinois's flat agricultural landscape is gradual but noticeable. No major mountain ranges or dramatic topography interrupt this route—the flight crosses relatively uniform Midwestern terrain.