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IST → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior sequence of views, including the historic Bosporus, the rugged fjords of Southern Greenland, and the expansive Great Lakes during the descent into Chicago.
Search flights from IST to ORD
Istanbul & Bosporus
Panoramic views of the historic Golden Horn and the bridge connecting Europe and Asia shortly after takeoff.
Carpathian Mountains
Dramatic views of the jagged peaks and deep valleys across Romania and Slovakia.
Greenland Fjords
The spectacular glaciers and floating icebergs of Cape Farewell on the southern tip of Greenland.
The Canadian Shield
A vast tapestry of boreal forests and thousands of pristine lakes across Quebec and Ontario.
Lake Huron
Crossing the turquoise waters of the Great Lakes as you enter U.S. airspace near Michigan.
Sit forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. This side experiences direct sunlight for much of the westbound flight; use the shade to manage glare but stay alert as you approach Greenland (approx. 5-6 hours in) for incredible ice views. In the final 30 minutes, watch for the distinct transition from the Canadian wilderness to the industrial Great Lakes region.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for United StatesBlack Sea Coast
Sweeping views of the northern Turkish coastline as the plane climbs to cruising altitude.
Greenland Ice Sheet
An endless white expanse of the world's second-largest ice body, featuring massive crevasses and glaciers.
Baffin Island
Stunning arctic tundra, frozen inlets, and sheer granite cliffs in the Canadian High Arctic.
Hudson Bay
The massive expanse of the bay, often filled with sea ice during the colder months.
Chicago Skyline
Depending on the landing pattern, you may see the Willis Tower and the downtown loop over Lake Michigan.
The right side is ideal for photography because it faces north, providing softer, indirect light. On winter flights, this side offers the best chance to witness the Aurora Borealis during the polar segment of the journey. For the approach into O'Hare, the right side is more likely to provide a view of the famous Chicago skyline if the plane circles over the lake before landing.
Book Hotels in ChicagoDistance: 8,786 km (5,459 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 20 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: International
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