Loading map...

LIT destination photo
ORD destination photo

LITORD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is preferred primarily for the spectacular arrival into Chicago, often featuring sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the famous skyline during the descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Mississippi River Meanders

Witness the impressive scale and winding oxbow lakes of the Mississippi River shortly after takeoff.

🌳

Shawnee National Forest

Observe the dense canopy and rugged terrain of Southern Illinois' most significant forest area.

🔋

Central Illinois Wind Farms

See the massive arrays of wind turbines stretching across the agricultural landscape of central Illinois.

🏙️

Chicago Skyline

The ultimate highlight: panoramic views of the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and the Loop during the descent.

🌊

Lake Michigan Shoreline

Enjoy the contrast between the deep blue lake and the city's edge as the plane maneuvers over the water for landing.

The right side is best for afternoon flights to have the sun behind you. For the best view of the Chicago skyline, watch closely during the last 15 minutes of flight; if landing on Runways 27C/L/R or 28C/L, the plane often banks over the lake, providing a postcard-perfect view.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏞️

Ozark Plateau Edge

As you depart Arkansas, look west for the rolling transition into the forested hills of the Ozark Mountains.

🏙️

St. Louis Horizon

On clear days, the Gateway Arch and the St. Louis metropolitan area are visible as the flight crosses the Missouri-Illinois border.

🏛️

Springfield Landmarks

Fly over the capital of Illinois, where you can spot the dome of the State Capitol building and the Lincoln Home area.

✈️

ORD Western Approach

View the dense suburban sprawl of the 'Golden Corridor' as the plane lines up for final approach from the west.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct eastern sun. This side is ideal for spotting the Mississippi River and St. Louis landmarks if the flight path stays slightly east of the city.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 889 km (552 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min

Departure: LIT (34.729400634799994, -92.2242965698)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.