Left seats win overall because the Cascade Range during takeoff is more visually dramatic and sustained than the landing views. While Lake Michigan and Milwaukee's waterfront are pleasant during approach, the volcanic peaks and gorge scenery during departure offer more distinctive geological features.
Flown PDX to MKE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Portland to Milwaukee is 1,713 miles (2,757 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon, then transitions over the Snake River Plain in Idaho and the high desert terrain of southern Idaho and Utah. The Great Salt Lake may be visible on the right (south) side during the central portion of the flight if the aircraft passes near its western edge. The flight then crosses the Rocky Mountains in Wyoming and enters the Great Plains, eventually passing over the Mississippi River valley before descent into Milwaukee. The most notable midpoint feature is the transition from the volcanic Cascade/Blue Mountain terrain to the arid interior basin landscape of the Pacific Northwest, followed by the high desert and Rocky Mountain regions.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PDX
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of the Cascade Range immediately after departure. PDX climbs eastward, and the Cascades dominate the left (north) side of the aircraft during the initial climb-out phase.
Landing at MKE
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the approach over Lake Michigan and the Milwaukee shoreline. MKE approaches from the east over the lake, so right-side passengers see the water, harbor, and city waterfront during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Portland International (PDX) to General Mitchell International (MKE)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Portland to Milwaukee. Left seats win overall because the Cascade Range during takeoff is more visually dramatic and sustained than the landing views. While Lake Michigan and Milwaukee's waterfront are pleasant during approach, the volcanic peaks and gorge scenery during departure offer more distinctive geological features.
What can I see during takeoff from Portland International in Portland?
During takeoff from Portland International (PDX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views of the Cascade Range immediately after departure. PDX climbs eastward, and the Cascades dominate the left (north) side of the aircraft during the initial climb-out phase. Notable sights include: Cascade Range (Mount Hood visible on clear days), Columbia River Gorge, Willamette Valley floor.
What can I see when landing at General Mitchell International in Milwaukee?
When landing at General Mitchell International (MKE), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the approach over Lake Michigan and the Milwaukee shoreline. MKE approaches from the east over the lake, so right-side passengers see the water, harbor, and city waterfront during descent. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Milwaukee Harbor and downtown skyline, Kettle Moraine landscape to the west.
How long is the flight from Portland to Milwaukee?
The flight from Portland International (PDX) to General Mitchell International (MKE) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,713 miles (2,757 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Portland to Milwaukee flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon, then transitions over the Snake River Plain in Idaho and the high desert terrain of southern Idaho and Utah. The Great Salt Lake may be visible on the right (south) side during the central portion of the flight if the aircraft passes near its western edge. The flight then crosses the Rocky Mountains in Wyoming and enters the Great Plains, eventually passing over the Mississippi River valley before descent into Milwaukee. The most notable midpoint feature is the transition from the volcanic Cascade/Blue Mountain terrain to the arid interior basin landscape of the Pacific Northwest, followed by the high desert and Rocky Mountain regions.