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LSE → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from La Crosse Municipal Airport (La Crosse) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the best opportunity to see the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison and the iconic Chicago skyline during the descent into O'Hare, especially when the plane approaches from the west.
Driftless Area Bluffs
The unglaciated landscape of southwestern Wisconsin features sharp ridges and deep valleys that are particularly striking at sunrise or sunset.
Wisconsin State Capitol
A clear view of the white granite dome of the Capitol building situated on the isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.
Rockford Skyline
Pass over or near the industrial hub of Rockford, Illinois, and the winding Rock River.
Chicago Skyline
On a clear day, the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center are visible to the south during the standard arrival patterns into ORD.
O'Hare Terminals
A great perspective of the massive airport infrastructure and busy runways during the final approach phase.
Choose the right side for the 'money shot' of Chicago. Depending on the wind, ORD often lands planes facing west; if so, the right side gets a panoramic view of the skyline. For late afternoon flights, be aware that the sun will be on this side, potentially requiring the window shade to be partially closed until descent.
Mississippi River Valley
Aerial view of the winding river and the sprawling wetlands of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge immediately after takeoff.
Black River Confluence
Watch the Black River merge with the Mississippi, creating a network of islands and channels near the airport.
Lake Mendota
As the flight passes Madison, the northern side features the largest of the four lakes surrounding the Wisconsin capital.
Kettle Moraine State Forest
Look for the distinct glacial landforms, ridges, and dense woodlands of southern Wisconsin's unique topography.
North Shore Suburbs
During final descent, views of the affluent northern suburbs and the sprawling Botanical Garden in Glencoe are often visible.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Driftless Area's rugged hills early in the flight. In the morning, the sun will be on the right side, making the left side better for photography without glare. Keep an eye out for the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus halfway through the flight.
Distance: 345 km (214 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: LSE (43.879002, -91.256699)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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