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ATL → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring distant views of the Appalachian range and a spectacular approach into Chicago over Lake Michigan with views of the iconic skyline.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The ancient, rolling peaks of the southern Appalachians are visible in the distance shortly after reaching cruise altitude.
Ohio River Crossing
Cross the wide Ohio River near the Louisville and Cincinnati corridor, a major geographic boundary between the South and the Midwest.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
As the plane descends, the deep blue of Lake Michigan provides a stunning contrast to the urban sprawl of the Chicago metro area.
Chicago Skyline
On the standard 'Lake Arrival,' the right side provides a front-row seat to the Willis Tower, the St. Regis, and the dense skyscraper clusters.
Navy Pier
Identify the distinct shape of Navy Pier and the lakefront parks as the aircraft maneuvers for its final approach into O'Hare.
The right side is essential for the iconic Chicago arrival. Book a morning flight for the best lighting on the skyline. During winter, look for ice formations along the Lake Michigan shoreline, which create beautiful white and blue fractals from above.
Atlanta Skyline
Catch a glimpse of the Midtown and Buckhead districts immediately after takeoff from ATL heading north.
Tennessee River Valley
The winding Tennessee River creates intricate patterns through the lush greenery of the south-central United States.
Indianapolis Views
On clear days, the grid of Indianapolis and the massive footprint of the Motor Speedway are visible to the west.
Sit on the left side for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Midwestern plains. This side also avoids the harsh morning sun during the northbound journey. Look for the geometric patterns of Indiana farmland during the mid-flight cruise.
Distance: 976 km (606 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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