While landing views favor the left, the takeoff experience from Zurich is superior. The Alps provide a dramatic, sustained scenic display during climb-out that is difficult to match anywhere on the return descent into Chicago. Right-side seats capture this premium mountain scenery.
Flown ZRH to MDW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Zurich to Chicago is 4,434 miles (7,136 km), a flight of about 10 hours.
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 6 hours with no significant landmarks visible. Over Greenland's southern tip (if visible during daylight), the Greenland ice sheet appears as a white expanse. The approach to North America brings views of the Canadian Maritime provinces and the eastern U.S. coastline (Nova Scotia, New England coast). The flight then crosses inland over the Great Lakes region, with Lake Michigan becoming prominent during the final descent into Chicago. The most visually interesting segment is the first 90 minutes (Alps departure) and the final 60 minutes (Great Lakes and Chicago approach); the mid-Atlantic crossing offers minimal scenic variation.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from ZRH
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Alps during the initial climb-out from Zurich. The aircraft departs eastbound initially before turning northwest, giving right-side passengers a clear view of the snow-capped peaks that dominate the landscape south and east of the airport.
Landing at MDW
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's downtown skyline during the approach to Midway. The aircraft descends from the northeast, and left-side passengers see the lake's shoreline, the city grid, and distinctive urban landmarks as the airport comes into view.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Zurich (ZRH) to Chicago Midway International (MDW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Zurich to Chicago. While landing views favor the left, the takeoff experience from Zurich is superior. The Alps provide a dramatic, sustained scenic display during climb-out that is difficult to match anywhere on the return descent into Chicago. Right-side seats capture this premium mountain scenery.
What can I see during takeoff from Zurich in Zurich?
During takeoff from Zurich (ZRH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Alps during the initial climb-out from Zurich. The aircraft departs eastbound initially before turning northwest, giving right-side passengers a clear view of the snow-capped peaks that dominate the landscape south and east of the airport. Notable sights include: Swiss Alps (particularly the Säntis and Appenzell Alps to the southeast), Lake Zurich (Zürichsee) to the south, Rhine Valley extending northeast, pre-Alpine foothills.
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 views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's downtown skyline during the approach to Midway. The aircraft descends from the northeast, and left-side passengers see the lake's shoreline, the city grid, and distinctive urban landmarks as the airport comes into view. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (western shore and open water), Chicago downtown skyline and Loop district, Midway Airport runways and surrounding neighborhoods, Des Plaines River valley.
How long is the flight from Zurich to Chicago?
The flight from Zurich (ZRH) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes about 10 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 4,434 miles (7,136 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Zurich to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean for roughly 6 hours with no significant landmarks visible. Over Greenland's southern tip (if visible during daylight), the Greenland ice sheet appears as a white expanse. The approach to North America brings views of the Canadian Maritime provinces and the eastern U.S. coastline (Nova Scotia, New England coast). The flight then crosses inland over the Great Lakes region, with Lake Michigan becoming prominent during the final descent into Chicago. The most visually interesting segment is the first 90 minutes (Alps departure) and the final 60 minutes (Great Lakes and Chicago approach); the mid-Atlantic crossing offers minimal scenic variation.