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JFK → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most consistent views of both the Manhattan skyline upon departure and the iconic Chicago lakefront and skyline during the approach into O'Hare.
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Midtown Manhattan
Unparalleled views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the Hudson River during the initial climb.
Lake Erie
A long stretch of the flight follows the northern edge of the lake, offering views of the vast water and passing cargo ships.
Chicago Skyline
If landing on the 27 or 28 runways, you get a spectacular view of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers over the lake.
Navy Pier
The iconic Ferris wheel and shoreline attractions are clearly visible during the standard descent pattern over Lake Michigan.
Wrigley Field
On many northern approach paths, you can spot the historic 'Friendly Confines' and the surrounding Lakeview neighborhood.
The right side is essential for the classic 'Lake Loop' approach into Chicago. For the best photography of the Chicago skyline, choose a seat behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the Willis Tower. Evening flights are particularly scenic as the city lights reflect off Lake Michigan.
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Lower Manhattan
Aerial views of the Financial District, Statue of Liberty, and One World Trade Center shortly after takeoff from JFK.
Appalachian Mountains
Rugged ridges and deep valleys of the central Pennsylvania mountain ranges during the initial cruise phase.
Cleveland Shoreline
The southern coast of Lake Erie and the downtown Cleveland area are often visible mid-flight.
Midwestern Grids
The iconic 'patchwork quilt' of the American Heartland's agricultural fields across Indiana and Illinois.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct southern sunlight glare. This side is ideal if the flight path takes a more southerly route, offering views of the Philadelphia metro area and the southern tip of Lake Michigan near Gary, Indiana.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,188 km (738 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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