While takeoff from Rochester favors the right side, the landing approach into Midway from the left side is more visually rewarding, offering views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline during the descent—the most dramatic portion of the flight.
Flown ROC to MDW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Rochester to Chicago is 522 miles (840 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central New York (Finger Lakes region visible to the south), then transitions over Pennsylvania and Ohio. Lake Erie appears on the southern horizon during the middle portion of the flight. The terrain gradually flattens as you approach Indiana and Illinois, with the Great Lakes region giving way to the flat agricultural plains of the Midwest.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ROC
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Genesee River valley and the city of Rochester spreading eastward during the initial climb. ROC typically departs to the west or southwest, so right-side passengers get the best view of the terrain you're leaving behind.
Landing at MDW
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Chicago metropolitan area and Lake Michigan during descent into Midway. Depending on the landing runway (typically 31L/31R or 22L/22R), left-side passengers see the city skyline and lakefront as you approach from the northeast or east.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Greater Rochester International (ROC) to Chicago Midway International (MDW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Rochester to Chicago. While takeoff from Rochester favors the right side, the landing approach into Midway from the left side is more visually rewarding, offering views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline during the descent—the most dramatic portion of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Greater Rochester International in Rochester?
During takeoff from Greater Rochester International (ROC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Genesee River valley and the city of Rochester spreading eastward during the initial climb. ROC typically departs to the west or southwest, so right-side passengers get the best view of the terrain you're leaving behind. Notable sights include: Genesee River valley, Lake Ontario (northern horizon), Rochester city grid, Finger Lakes region to the south.
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 the Chicago metropolitan area and Lake Michigan during descent into Midway. Depending on the landing runway (typically 31L/31R or 22L/22R), left-side passengers see the city skyline and lakefront as you approach from the northeast or east. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago downtown skyline, Midway's position on the southwest side of the city, Des Plaines River.
How long is the flight from Rochester to Chicago?
The flight from Greater Rochester International (ROC) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 522 miles (840 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Rochester to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central New York (Finger Lakes region visible to the south), then transitions over Pennsylvania and Ohio. Lake Erie appears on the southern horizon during the middle portion of the flight. The terrain gradually flattens as you approach Indiana and Illinois, with the Great Lakes region giving way to the flat agricultural plains of the Midwest.