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ANC → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (Anchorage) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the towering Wrangell-St. Elias range shortly after departure and provides a better perspective of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan during the approach into O'Hare.
Chugach Mountains
Stunning views of snow-capped peaks and massive glacier systems immediately after departing Anchorage.
Wrangell-St. Elias
View the northern perimeter of this massive national park, home to some of the highest peaks in North America.
Northern Rockies
Aerial perspective of the rugged Canadian Rockies stretching across British Columbia and Alberta.
Canadian Prairies
The vast, geometric patterns of agricultural land across Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Lake Michigan
During the descent, the aircraft often turns over the lake, providing a deep blue contrast to the urban landscape.
Chicago Skyline
A frequent sight on the left during the final approach, showcasing the Willis Tower and lakefront architecture.
Sit on the left for the best chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis during night flights over Northern Canada. For daytime flights, the first hour is the most scenic with Alaskan glaciers. During arrival, if the plane lands toward the west, the left side typically gets the iconic view of downtown Chicago.
Prince William Sound
A glimpse of the icy waters and rugged coastline south of Anchorage shortly after takeoff.
Mount Saint Elias
Distant views of the massive coastal mountains marking the border between Alaska and the Yukon.
Peace River Valley
The winding river systems and deep valleys of northeastern British Columbia.
Mississippi River
Crossing the upper reaches of the longest river in North America as you enter the Midwest.
Chicago Suburbs
The sprawling, dense grid pattern of the Chicagoland area during the final descent.
The right side is excellent for sunset views on evening departures from ANC. Keep an eye out for the transition from the high-altitude Rockies to the flat interior plains. During takeoff, you may see the Turnagain Arm if the flight path tracks south before heading east.
Distance: 4,568 km (2,838 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 22 min
Departure: ANC (61.17440032958984, -149.99600219726562)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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