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BHM → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (Birmingham) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the clear winner for its spectacular approach over Lake Michigan, offering a panoramic view of the iconic Chicago skyline before landing.
Search flights from BHM to ORD
Huntsville Space Center
Look for the vertical silhouette of the Saturn V rocket at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center shortly after takeoff.
Nashville Skyline
The Cumberland River and the distinct 'Batman Building' skyscraper in Tennessee's capital are often visible.
Indianapolis
Catch a glimpse of the dense urban core and the nearby suburban expansion of Indiana's capital city.
Chicago Skyline
The crown jewel view of the Sears Tower, Hancock Center, and the dense cluster of 'The Loop' during descent.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
The deep blue waters and sandy beaches of the Indiana Dunes and the Chicago lakefront during the final turn.
The right side is essential for the best arrival experience. Most flights into O'Hare from the south follow an arrival pattern that tracks north over Lake Michigan before turning west. This provides an unobstructed, bird's-eye view of the entire Chicago lakefront. For the most dramatic effect, book an evening flight to see the city lights and the setting sun reflecting off the lake.
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Bankhead National Forest
Observe the dense canopy and rugged canyons of Northwest Alabama's premier wilderness area shortly after departure.
Land Between the Lakes
Glimpse the massive reservoirs of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley near the Tennessee-Kentucky border.
Illinois Heartland
A geometric tapestry of green and gold agricultural grids stretching across the central part of the state.
Joliet Industrial Corridor
View the heavy industry and massive logistics hubs of the Des Plaines River valley south of Chicago.
Opt for the left side on morning flights to keep the sun behind you and reduce glare. It is particularly scenic during the fall when the changing colors of the northern Alabama and southern Illinois forests are visible. Watch for the Ohio River crossing about halfway through the flight.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 941 km (585 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: BHM (33.56290054, -86.75350189)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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