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CHO → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (Charlottesville VA) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the Shenandoah National Park ridge line immediately after takeoff and provides the iconic 'lakefront' approach into Chicago, showcasing the Lake Michigan shoreline and the city's famous skyline during the final descent.
Shenandoah National Park
Breathtaking views of the Skyline Drive and the dense forest canopy of the Appalachian ridge right after takeoff.
Potomac Headwaters
The winding curves of the North Branch Potomac River carving through the mountainous terrain of the WV-MD border.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
A stunning transition from the Indiana dunes to the deep blue expanse of the Great Lakes during the descent.
Navy Pier & Downtown
The classic aerial view of Chicago's lakefront, including Navy Pier and the Hancock Center, often seen during the base leg of the landing.
Gary & Port of Indiana
Industrial landscapes and massive shipping ports visible along the southern tip of Lake Michigan.
The right side is the clear winner for the 'Chicago Experience.' Choose this side for evening flights to see the city lights reflecting off Lake Michigan. Be aware that seasonal lake effect clouds can sometimes obscure the view in winter, but on clear days, the descent over the water is spectacular.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Dramatic views of the rolling peaks of the southern Blue Ridge range shortly after departing Charlottesville.
Shenandoah Valley
A vast patchwork of green pastures and historic farmsteads stretching toward the southern horizon.
Appalachian Plateau
The deeply eroded, tree-covered plateaus of West Virginia and eastern Ohio, featuring winding river valleys.
Willis Tower
Direct views of the tallest building in Chicago if the aircraft approaches O'Hare from the south or southwest.
Sit on the left for the best morning light on the mountains without glare. During the final approach, if the plane enters from the south, this side provides a close-up view of the dense urban sprawl of the Chicago suburbs and the towering skyscrapers of the Loop.
Distance: 910 km (565 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min
Departure: CHO (38.13859939575195, -78.4529037475586)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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