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CWA destination photo
ORD destination photo

CWAORD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for this route as it typically offers panoramic views of the Lake Michigan shoreline and the stunning Chicago skyline during the final descent into O'Hare.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Panoramic views of downtown skyscrapers and the Willis Tower upon approach.

🌊

Lake Michigan

The vast blue expanse of the lake contrasting with the urban shoreline.

🎡

Navy Pier

The iconic ferris wheel and lakefront attractions visible on final descent.

🌊

Lake Winnebago

Wisconsin's largest inland lake visible to the east shortly after takeoff.

🌲

Kettle Moraine

Glacial landforms and rolling hills throughout eastern Wisconsin.

Sitting on the left is ideal for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun and to catch the sun reflecting off Lake Michigan. Aim for a seat in front of the wing for an unobstructed view of the Chicago lakefront during the base leg of the landing pattern. Ensure you look out about 15 minutes before landing to catch the transition from suburban landscapes to the lakefront.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🎓

Madison Isthmus

The Wisconsin State Capitol building nestled between Lakes Mendota and Monona.

🛶

Wisconsin River

Meandering waterways and sandbars visible near the Wisconsin Dells area.

🐄

Dairy Farmland

The classic patchwork quilt appearance of midwestern agriculture below.

🏔️

Devil's Lake

The quartzite bluffs of the Baraboo Range and the deep blue glacial lake.

🏗️

O'Hare Terminals

A detailed view of the complex runway systems and aircraft taxiing during landing.

The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to see the sunset over the Wisconsin countryside. It provides better views of the state capitol in Madison if the flight path tracks slightly west, and offers a closer look at the intricate airport operations during touchdown. This side is also generally quieter for glare during late-day departures.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 342 km (213 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 34 min

Departure: CWA (44.7775993347, -89.6668014526)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

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