Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Peoria to Chicago. While takeoff offers interesting river and local geography views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and sustained scenic value—the Des Plaines River, extensive Chicago suburbs, and the urban transition are visually compelling. Left seats capture the approach descent more effectively.

During takeoff from General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Illinois River valley and the Peoria urban area during initial climb. The river's distinctive meanders are visible from low altitude, and you'll see the city grid spreading eastward before the aircraft banks northeast toward Chicago. Notable sights include: Illinois River (winding through the valley), Peoria city center and residential sprawl, farmland and fields extending east, Lake Peoria (small reservoir visible to the north).

When landing at Chicago Midway International (MDW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent approach into Midway. You'll see the Chicago metropolitan area's western suburbs, the Des Plaines River, and eventually the airport itself. The urban density increases dramatically as you descend, offering a clear perspective of Chicago's sprawl. Notable sights include: Des Plaines River (flowing north-south), Chicago's western suburbs (Oak Lawn, Evergreen Park, Cicero), Lake Michigan visible on the distant eastern horizon, Midway International Airport runways and taxiways.

The flight from General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes Approximately 45-55 minutes.

The flight path travels northeast from Peoria across central Illinois farmland. Notable features along the route include the Vermilion River valley (south of the direct path), extensive agricultural grid patterns, occasional small towns and their water towers, and the gradual transition from rural to suburban landscape as the aircraft approaches the Chicago metropolitan area. The Des Plaines River becomes visible approximately 15-20 minutes before landing as the aircraft descends into the approach corridor.