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IAD → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for this route, providing a spectacular front-row seat to the iconic Chicago skyline and the Navy Pier during the descent into O'Hare.
Search flights from IAD to ORD
Shenandoah National Park
Lush views of the Blue Ridge Mountains shortly after takeoff from Dulles.
Appalachian Ridges
Distinctive ridge-and-valley formations crossing through West Virginia.
Ohio River
A broad view of the river winding through the border of West Virginia and Ohio.
Chicago Skyline
The premier view of the Willis Tower, Hancock Building, and the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Soldier Field
The historic stadium and museum campus visible as the plane banks over the lake.
For the best experience, choose a window seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the Chicago skyline isn't blocked. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the Appalachian Mountains, while evening flights provide a stunning 'lit-up' view of the Chicago Loop. If landing to the West, the skyline will be perfectly framed on this side.
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Upper Potomac River
Scenic views of the river's northern stretches near the Maryland border.
Allegheny Plateau
Rugged, forested terrain stretching across western Pennsylvania.
Lake Erie Horizon
The faint blue shimmer of Lake Erie can often be spotted on the northern horizon.
North Shore Coastline
Views of Evanston and the affluent North Shore suburbs of Chicago.
O'Hare Operations
A great perspective of the airport's massive runway complex and terminals upon landing.
The right side is excellent for avoiding direct afternoon sun when flying West. It offers peaceful views of the Great Lakes' southern tips and a better look at the Chicago North Shore suburbs. On clear days, look for the distant outline of the Michigan shoreline across the water.
Book Hotels in ChicagoDistance: 945 km (587 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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