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OKC destination photo
ORD destination photo

OKCORD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is generally superior for this route as it offers the best chance to see the Mississippi River crossing and the spectacular Chicago skyline against Lake Michigan during the descent into O'Hare.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Mississippi River

A major highlight featuring the massive waterway that serves as the natural border between Missouri and Illinois.

🗼

Gateway Arch

On clear days with a southern flight path, the iconic silver arch of St. Louis can be spotted to the east.

🏙️

Chicago Skyline

An unbeatable view of Willis Tower and the dense cluster of skyscrapers as you descend into the Windy City.

⛵

Lake Michigan

The deep blue horizon of the Great Lake creates a stunning backdrop for the city during the final banking turns.

The right side is ideal for late afternoon or sunset flights to witness the 'Golden Hour' light reflecting off the Chicago skyscrapers. Watch for the transition from the red-tinted soil of Oklahoma to the dark, rich earth of the Illinois basin. For the best skyline views, hope for an arrival that enters over the lake and turns back west.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🏙️

Oklahoma City Skyline

A clear view of the Devon Tower and downtown Oklahoma City immediately following takeoff from Will Rogers World Airport.

⛰️

Northern Ozarks

The flight path traverses the edge of the Ozark Plateau, revealing dense forests and rugged terrain in southern Missouri.

🚜

Illinois Heartland

Vast stretches of perfectly gridded farmland that change from deep green to gold depending on the season.

🌳

Des Plaines River

The winding river and lush green belts of the forest preserves surrounding the O'Hare area during the final approach.

Choose the left side for morning departures to keep the sun behind you, reducing glare on the window. This side is excellent for seeing the intricate layout of the O'Hare airfield if the plane approaches from the west and lands on an eastbound runway.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 1,114 km (692 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min

Departure: OKC (35.39310073852539, -97.60070037841795)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

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