While right-side takeoff views are good, the left-side landing approach over Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline offers more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery. The contrast between the lake and urban landscape is more striking than the Mississippi River and farmland on departure.
Flown STL to MDW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
St. Louis to Chicago is 251 miles (404 km), a flight of about 1 hour 10 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Illinois farmland with minimal elevation change. Around the midpoint, you'll pass over the Illinois prairie with scattered towns and agricultural fields. The terrain remains flat throughout; no significant mountains or water bodies interrupt the journey between the two cities.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from STL
RIGHTRight-side seats offer the best views during the initial climb-out from STL. You'll see the Mississippi River bend prominently as the aircraft banks northeast, and the urban grid of downtown St. Louis recedes below. The Gateway Arch is visible but small at altitude.
Landing at MDW
LEFTLeft-side seats provide superior views on approach to Midway. You'll see Lake Michigan's shoreline and the Chicago skyline grow progressively larger as the aircraft descends on a westerly approach. The lake's blue water contrasts sharply with the urban sprawl.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Lambert St Louis International (STL) to Chicago Midway International (MDW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from St. Louis to Chicago. While right-side takeoff views are good, the left-side landing approach over Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline offers more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery. The contrast between the lake and urban landscape is more striking than the Mississippi River and farmland on departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Lambert St Louis International in St. Louis?
During takeoff from Lambert St Louis International (STL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer the best views during the initial climb-out from STL. You'll see the Mississippi River bend prominently as the aircraft banks northeast, and the urban grid of downtown St. Louis recedes below. The Gateway Arch is visible but small at altitude. Notable sights include: Mississippi River (main channel and floodplain), downtown St. Louis urban core, Gateway Arch (small but identifiable), Illinois farmland extending eastward.
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 superior views on approach to Midway. You'll see Lake Michigan's shoreline and the Chicago skyline grow progressively larger as the aircraft descends on a westerly approach. The lake's blue water contrasts sharply with the urban sprawl. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (shoreline and open water), Chicago downtown skyline and high-rise district, Midway Airport runways, residential neighborhoods of southwest Chicago.
How long is the flight from St. Louis to Chicago?
The flight from Lambert St Louis International (STL) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 251 miles (404 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the St. Louis to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Illinois farmland with minimal elevation change. Around the midpoint, you'll pass over the Illinois prairie with scattered towns and agricultural fields. The terrain remains flat throughout; no significant mountains or water bodies interrupt the journey between the two cities.