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ORD â AMS
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route primarily due to the potential for viewing the Northern Lights during the overnight Atlantic crossing and the dramatic views of the Greenland ice cap on more northerly flight tracks.
Chicago Gold Coast
Dramatic views of the Chicago shoreline and skyscrapers immediately after takeoff from O'Hare.
Greenland Ice Sheet
Breathtaking views of jagged peaks, glaciers, and floating icebergs if the flight path follows a high-latitude arc.
Aurora Borealis
Highest probability of seeing the Northern Lights during the dark hours over the North Atlantic.
Scottish Highlands
Aerial vistas of the rugged mountains and deep lochs of Northern Scotland during the early morning descent.
North Sea Wind Farms
Vast offshore wind arrays, including the Gemini Wind Park, visible as you approach the Dutch coast.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion for Northern Lights photography. These flights are typically overnight; keep your window shade down to preserve cabin darkness, but peek out periodically once you reach 50-60 degrees North latitude. Use a blanket to cover your head and camera to block cabin light reflections against the glass.
The Great Lakes
Extensive views across Lake Michigan and Lake Huron shortly after departure.
Newfoundland Coastline
The rugged peninsulas and rocky cliffs of eastern Canada before heading out over the open ocean.
Emerald Isle
The lush green landscapes and geometric fields of Ireland as the sun rises.
Northern England
Views of the Pennines and the industrial heritage of the North of England during the final cruise phase.
Dutch Polders
Intricate canal systems and perfectly rectangular reclaimed land visible during the approach to Schiphol.
The right side is ideal for sunrise lovers, as you will be facing the sun as it rises over Europe. This side offers better views of the Canadian Maritimes if the flight takes a more southerly track. Upon arrival at AMS, if the plane lands on the Polderbaan (runway 18R/36L), you will have a long taxi (up to 15 minutes) providing a great tour of the airport's outer perimeter.
Distance: 6,612 km (4,109 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 47 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Route Type: International
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