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CUN → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Cancún International Airport (Cancun) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer beautiful coastal transitions, the Right Side is preferred for the iconic view of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan during the descent into O'Hare, as well as the initial views of Isla Mujeres departing Cancun.
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Isla Mujeres
A stunning view of the narrow island and its surrounding coral reefs just off the coast.
Deep Gulf Transit
Watch the dramatic color shift from Caribbean turquoise to the deep indigo of the central Gulf.
Mississippi Sound
Views of the barrier islands and busy shipping lanes near Gulfport and Biloxi.
St. Louis Arch
On clear days, the Gateway Arch and the downtown skyline may be visible to the west.
Chicago Skyline
A world-class view of the Willis Tower, Hancock Building, and Lake Michigan shoreline on the approach.
The Right Side is the 'money' side for the arrival into Chicago. If the aircraft follows the common 'Lake Visual' or arrivals from the east, you will have a front-row seat to the skyline. Morning flights on this side will experience significant sun glare, so bring sunglasses or a window polarize filter for photography.
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Cancun Hotel Zone
Aerial view of the famous '7' shaped sandbar and turquoise lagoon waters upon takeoff.
Yucatán Jungle
Vast expanse of dense tropical forest stretching across the northern peninsula.
Mississippi River Delta
The intricate 'bird's foot' delta structure and silt-rich waters meeting the Gulf of Mexico.
Ozark Plateau
Rolling forested hills and winding river valleys across southern Missouri.
Chicagoland Grid
The immense, perfectly squared residential grid of the Chicago suburbs during the final approach.
Sit on the left for the most direct views of the Cancun resort strip immediately after takeoff. If flying during the afternoon, this side will be in the shade for most of the northward journey, making it easier to take photos without glare. Keep an eye out for the Mississippi River as you cross into the central United States.
Get eSIMs for Mexico
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,331 km (1,448 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 6 min
Departure: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: International
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