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AUS destination photo
ORD destination photo

AUSORD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is generally superior for this route because it offers the potential for iconic views of the Chicago skyline and the vast blue expanse of Lake Michigan during the descent into O'Hare.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Austin Skyline

Depending on the departure runway, you may see Lady Bird Lake and the rapidly growing downtown Austin towers.

🏞️

Ozark National Forest

Dense forest canopies and rugged plateaus as the flight traverses southern Missouri.

🌊

Mississippi River

A major highlight featuring the massive, winding waterway that serves as the gateway to the East.

🏙️

Chicago Skyline

On the standard 'Downwind' approach, this side offers a spectacular profile of the Willis Tower and Hancock Center.

🚤

Lake Michigan

Deep blue water views and the Chicago shoreline as the plane turns for its final approach into O'Hare.

Sit on the right for the best chance of seeing the Chicago skyline. Morning flights on this side avoid the harsh glare of the western sun. For night flights, this side provides a dazzling view of the 'L' train lines and the brightly lit city core during arrival.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🌳

Texas Hill Country

Aerial views of the rolling green terrain and limestone topography northwest of Austin shortly after takeoff.

🏜️

Red River Valley

The distinctive red-clay banks of the river that forms the border between Texas and Oklahoma.

🏙️

St. Louis Outskirts

Distant views of the Missouri landscape and the suburban sprawl as you cross into the Midwest.

🌽

Illinois Prairie

The vast, geometric patchworks of agriculture that define the central Illinois landscape.

Choose this side if you are flying during the late afternoon to catch a beautiful sunset over the Great Plains. It is also the better side for viewing the intricate 'grid system' of the American Midwest as you descend into the Chicago suburbs.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 1,575 km (979 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 6 min

Departure: AUS (30.194499969482425, -97.6698989868164)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

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