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.

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.

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.

The flight from Norfolk Ns (NGU) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes 4h 15m.

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.