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BDL destination photo
ORD destination photo

BDLORD

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is highly recommended for this route as it typically offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Chicago skyline and Navy Pier during the descent into O'Hare Airport.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🌲

The Berkshires

Lush green peaks of Western Massachusetts and the New York border immediately after departure.

🍷

Finger Lakes

The distinct, long glacial lakes of Upstate New York are clearly visible from cruising altitude.

🚢

Lake Michigan Crossing

The vast blue expanse of the lake provides a stark contrast before hitting the urban sprawl.

🌆

Chicago Skyline

Unrivaled views of the Willis Tower, Hancock Building, and the Lakefront on standard approaches.

The right side is the 'money seat' for the Chicago approach. Most ORD arrivals loop over Lake Michigan, providing those on the right a perfect view of the entire downtown skyline. Avoid this side on early morning flights to stay out of the direct sunrise.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Hudson River Valley

Dramatic views of the river and the northern tip of the Catskill Mountains shortly after takeoff.

🏔️

Appalachian Plateau

A birds-eye view of the rugged, rolling terrain across the northern Pennsylvania border.

🚤

Lake Erie South Shore

Scanning the coastline for the city lights or daytime shoreline of Cleveland, Ohio.

🏭

Gary Industrial Zone

The massive steel mills and unique industrial landscape of the Indiana shoreline before landing.

Choose the left side for afternoon or evening flights to enjoy the sunset colors over the wing without direct solar glare. This side is also excellent for spotting the 'Rust Belt' industrial architecture during the final descent.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 1,257 km (781 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 41 min

Departure: BDL (41.9388999939, -72.68319702149999)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

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