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BMI → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Central Illinois Regional Airport at Bloomington-Normal (Bloomington) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the definitive choice for this route, offering iconic views of the Chicago skyline, the Lake Michigan shoreline, and the city's famous lakefront parks during the descent into O'Hare.
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Chicago Loop
The world-famous skyline, featuring the Willis Tower and a dense cluster of architectural landmarks, is clearly visible during the standard approach.
Lake Michigan
Enjoy the vast, ocean-like horizon of the Great Lake, often shimmering with turquoise hues near the shoreline on sunny days.
Navy Pier
Spot the iconic Centennial Wheel and the long pier extending into the lake, a central piece of the Chicago lakefront.
Soldier Field & Museum Campus
A great view of the Chicago Bears' stadium and the historic Field Museum, nestled right along the water's edge.
This is the 'scenic' side for the approach. Flights often fly past the city over Lake Michigan before turning back west to land; if this happens, the right side gets a panoramic view of the entire city. Night flights are particularly spectacular on this side, as the city's grid system lights up like a circuit board. Try to book a seat forward of the wing to ensure your view of the skyscrapers isn't obstructed.
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Illinois Prairie Grid
The quintessential view of the American Midwest, featuring perfectly square mile-long sections of farmland that create a massive geometric quilt.
I-55 Corridor
Trace the path of the historic Route 66 and the modern Interstate 55 as they cut through the rural landscape toward the Chicago suburbs.
Western Suburbs
As you descend, watch the sudden transition from rural fields to the dense, tree-lined residential neighborhoods of Naperville and Aurora.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and avoid glare. This side is excellent for observing the complex runway operations and cargo terminals on the south and west sides of O'Hare just before touchdown. During winter, look for the stark contrast of snow-covered fields against the black grid lines of rural roads.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 187 km (116 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 19 min
Departure: BMI (40.47710037, -88.91590118)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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