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CMX → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Houghton County Memorial Airport (Hancock) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the Lake Michigan shoreline, the unique geography of Door County, and the most iconic approach to the Chicago skyline.
Keweenaw Bay
Aerial views of the deep blue waters and rugged shoreline of the Upper Peninsula immediately after takeoff.
Hiawatha National Forest
A vast expanse of dense green pine forests transitioning toward the shores of Lake Michigan.
Door County Peninsula
Clear views of the thin strip of land separating Green Bay from the main body of Lake Michigan.
Milwaukee Coastline
The urban layout of Wisconsin's largest city and its busy harbor visible along the western lakefront.
The Chicago Loop
On many approach paths, the left side provides a stunning view of the Willis Tower and the dense cluster of skyscrapers.
For the best experience, book an evening flight to see the Chicago skyline illuminated against the lake. During the day, sit here to see the turquoise shallows of Green Bay. This side is also less likely to have direct sun glare on a morning southbound flight.
Ottawa National Forest
Dense, uninterrupted wilderness of the western Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin.
Rib Mountain
A prominent quartzite ridge near Wausau that stands out significantly from the surrounding flat terrain.
Wisconsin Dairy Farms
The transition into the 'Dairy State' heartland, featuring a patchwork of colorful fields and silos.
O'Hare Terminals
As the plane banks for landing, you get a bird's-eye view of the complex runway systems and terminal architecture.
Choose the right side if you prefer seeing the transition from wilderness to agricultural grids. It offers great views of the north-central Wisconsin river systems. Note that afternoon flights may experience significant sun glare on this side.
Distance: 579 km (360 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 58 min
Departure: CMX (47.16839981079102, -88.48909759521484)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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