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BTV → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Burlington International Airport (Burlington) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers the most dramatic scenery, including the Adirondack High Peaks, Lake Ontario, a potential overhead view of Niagara Falls, and a spectacular approach over Lake Michigan into Chicago.
Adirondack High Peaks
Rugged terrain and the highest summits of New York state visible shortly after takeoff.
Lake Ontario
The vast, sea-like expanse of the northernmost Great Lake stretching toward the Canadian border.
Niagara Falls
The world-famous waterfalls are often visible as the plane crosses the Niagara River into Ontario/Michigan airspace.
Toronto Horizon
On exceptionally clear days, the CN Tower and Toronto skyline are visible across the water.
Chicago Skyline
Stunning panoramic views of the Willis Tower and lakefront during the standard approach into ORD.
The right side is superior for landmarks. About 30-40 minutes into the flight, watch for Niagara Falls. When approaching O'Hare, the plane typically flies over Lake Michigan and turns west; sitting on the right provides a front-row seat to the iconic Chicago skyline and Navy Pier. Afternoon flights on this side avoid the direct southern sun glare.
Green Mountains
Lush, rolling peaks of Vermont visible immediately after departure from BTV.
Finger Lakes
The southern tips of New York's glacial lakes appearing as long, narrow ribbons of blue.
Cleveland Skyline
Aerial views of the Ohio coastline and the 'Forest City' along the edge of Lake Erie.
Indiana Dunes
Distinctive sandy shores at the southern terminus of Lake Michigan before the final descent.
Choose the left side for morning departures to capture the sun rising over the Vermont hills. This side is also preferable if the flight path takes a more southerly route over Ohio, providing better views of the industrial heartland and the suburbs of Chicago during landing.
Distance: 1,225 km (761 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: BTV (44.4719009399, -73.15329742429998)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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