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MAD → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Newfoundland coastline and avoids the harsh southern sun glare during the westbound transatlantic journey.
Galician Massif
Rugged mountain views of northwestern Spain before crossing into the Atlantic.
Newfoundland Cliffs
Spectacular rocky headlands and boreal forests of Eastern Canada after the ocean crossing.
Gulf of St. Lawrence
A massive inland sea often dotted with large ships and remote islands like Anticosti.
Laurentian Mountains
Old, rounded mountain ranges of Quebec visible during the mid-continental transit.
Chicago Lakefront
A world-class view of the Chicago skyline and the Navy Pier if landing from the east.
The right side is the 'cool' side of the plane with indirect lighting, making it much better for photography. Watch for the first sight of land after the ocean crossing, usually around 6 hours into the flight, as the rugged beauty of Newfoundland is a major highlight. For the best skyline views of Chicago, pray for a landing on runways 27L or 28C.
Castilian Meseta
Broad views of the high Spanish plateau immediately after departing Madrid Barajas.
Atlantic Seaboard
The transition from the Iberian Peninsula to the open ocean over the Portuguese coast.
Nova Scotia Coastline
Detailed views of the indented bays and fishing villages of the Canadian Maritimes.
New England Fringe
Distant views of the American East Coast cities if taking a southerly flight track.
Southern Lake Michigan
The blue expanse of the lake as the aircraft descends towards O'Hare.
This side faces south during the westbound flight, meaning you will encounter significant sun glare for most of the day. It is ideal for those who enjoy vast ocean horizons, but keep your window shade partially lowered to manage heat and brightness.
Distance: 6,746 km (4,192 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 56 min
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: International
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