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AZO → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Kalamazoo Battle Creek International Airport (Kalamazoo) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for this short hop. As you cross Lake Michigan and approach Chicago, the left side offers a stunning panorama of the iconic skyline, including the Willis Tower and Navy Pier, especially during the typical east-to-west landing pattern into O'Hare.
Michigan Inland Lakes
Immediately after takeoff from AZO, view the dense cluster of small lakes like Austin Lake and West Lake dotting the landscape.
Indiana Dunes Shoreline
As the plane crosses the southern tip of Lake Michigan, look for the unique sandy ridges and protected wetlands of the National Park.
Gary Industrial Zone
The massive steel mills and industrial infrastructure of Gary, Indiana, provide a stark, fascinating contrast to the blue lake waters.
Chicago Skyline
The 'Money Shot' occurs on the final approach; the entire downtown Chicago skyline, featuring Willis Tower and the Lakefront, is perfectly framed.
Navy Pier
Clearly visible as you fly past the shoreline, look for the Centennial Wheel and the long pier extending into the lake.
Sit on the left for the best chance of seeing the Chicago skyline. For morning flights, this side has the sun behind it, providing perfect lighting for photos of the city. If landing on runways 27L or 28C, the plane usually tracks just north of the Loop, putting the city directly out your window.
Downtown Kalamazoo
Depending on the departure runway, you may get a brief glimpse of the Kalamazoo central business district shortly after lift-off.
St. Joseph Lighthouse
As you reach the Michigan coastline, look for the historic North Pier Inner and Outer Lights at the mouth of the St. Joseph River.
Open Lake Michigan
A peaceful view of the vast, ocean-like expanse of Lake Michigan during the short cruise portion of the flight.
North Shore & Evanston
View the affluent northern suburbs and the campus of Northwestern University as the plane begins its turn toward O'Hare.
Chicago Botanic Garden
On a northern approach path, you might spot the intricate islands and gardens of the Glencoe/Northbrook area.
The right side is better for avoiding direct sun glare on afternoon flights. While you miss the main skyline, you get a great view of the Michigan piers upon departure and the lush, sprawling northern suburbs of Chicago during the descent. Keep an eye out for lake freighters crossing the water below.
Distance: 196 km (122 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 20 min
Departure: AZO (42.234901428222656, -85.5521011352539)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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