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ALO → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Waterloo Regional Airport (Waterloo) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer scenic views of the Midwest, the right side is preferred for its superior perspective of the Chicago skyline and the sprawling urban landscape during the approach into O'Hare.
Search flights from ALO to ORD
Midwest Patchwork
Perfectly geometric agricultural grids that define the landscape of eastern Iowa and central Illinois.
Mississippi Bridge
A stunning cross-section of the Mississippi River including industrial barge traffic and historic bridges.
Fox River Valley
Dense suburban development and recreational waterways as the flight enters the Chicago metro area.
Chicago Skyline
Unrivaled views of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers during the southern approach patterns into ORD.
The right side is essential for the iconic Chicago skyline reveal. For late afternoon flights, the city is bathed in golden light. Keep your camera ready during the final 15 minutes of the flight as the descent over the suburbs happens quickly.
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Cedar River
The winding river path visible shortly after departing Waterloo Regional Airport.
Driftless Area
The unique unglaciated terrain of the tri-state area featuring rugged bluffs and deep valleys.
Upper Mississippi
A wide view of the river's northern reach and the many islands near the Iowa-Illinois border.
Lake Michigan
Distant views of the deep blue lake waters as the plane aligns for a northern approach.
Sit on the left for early morning departures to avoid the sun glare. This side is better for observing the natural geology of the Driftless Area during the middle portion of the flight. If landing on the northern runways, you may see the lake first.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 375 km (233 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: ALO (42.55709838867188, -92.40029907226562)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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