Norfolk to Chicago is 697 miles (1,122 km), a flight of about 2 hours 5 minutes.
The takeoff views from Norfolk are more distinctive and geographically dramatic than the landing approach to Chicago. The Hampton Roads estuary and Atlantic coastline offer unique water-based scenery that's visually striking. While Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline are impressive on landing, the Norfolk departure provides the more memorable scenic experience.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Appalachian Mountains (visible as ridgelines and valleys in West Virginia and eastern Kentucky), the Ohio River valley, and the flat agricultural plains of Indiana and Illinois. The Appalachian terrain is the most visually distinctive midpoint feature, with parallel mountain ridges creating a corrugated landscape pattern.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from NGU
RIGHTRight side seats offer views of the Hampton Roads waterway system and the Atlantic coastline as you climb out. You'll see the confluence of the James, Nansemond, and Elizabeth Rivers, plus the distinctive shape of Norfolk Harbor and the barrier islands to the east.
Landing at MDW
LEFTLeft side seats provide excellent views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's downtown skyline during approach. You'll see the lake's vast expanse, the Chicago River system, and the distinctive high-rise cluster of the Loop as you descend toward Midway.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Norfolk Ns (NGU) to Chicago Midway International (MDW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Norfolk to Chicago. The takeoff views from Norfolk are more distinctive and geographically dramatic than the landing approach to Chicago. The Hampton Roads estuary and Atlantic coastline offer unique water-based scenery that's visually striking. While Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline are impressive on landing, the Norfolk departure provides the more memorable scenic experience.
What can I see during takeoff from Norfolk Ns in Norfolk?
During takeoff from Norfolk Ns (NGU), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side seats offer views of the Hampton Roads waterway system and the Atlantic coastline as you climb out. You'll see the confluence of the James, Nansemond, and Elizabeth Rivers, plus the distinctive shape of Norfolk Harbor and the barrier islands to the east. Notable sights include: Hampton Roads estuary, Norfolk Harbor, Atlantic Ocean coastline, Chesapeake Bay entrance.
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 seats provide excellent views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's downtown skyline during approach. You'll see the lake's vast expanse, the Chicago River system, and the distinctive high-rise cluster of the Loop as you descend toward Midway. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline (the Loop), Chicago River, Midway Airport runways.
How long is the flight from Norfolk to Chicago?
The flight from Norfolk Ns (NGU) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes about 2 hours 5 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 697 miles (1,122 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Norfolk to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Appalachian Mountains (visible as ridgelines and valleys in West Virginia and eastern Kentucky), the Ohio River valley, and the flat agricultural plains of Indiana and Illinois. The Appalachian terrain is the most visually distinctive midpoint feature, with parallel mountain ridges creating a corrugated landscape pattern.