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ORD → AZO
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Kalamazoo Battle Creek International Airport (Kalamazoo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a premier view of the iconic Chicago skyline immediately after departure, followed by a unique perspective of the industrial shoreline and the natural beauty of the Indiana Dunes.
Chicago Loop Skyline
Unparalleled views of the Willis Tower, Millennium Park, and the dense architectural core of downtown Chicago.
Gary Industrial Waterfront
The massive steel mills and heavy industrial complexes of Northwest Indiana provide a stark, fascinating contrast to the city.
Indiana Dunes National Park
Views of the sweeping sand dunes, marshes, and diverse ecosystems along the southern tip of Lake Michigan.
Berrien County Orchards
The 'Fruit Belt' of Michigan, featuring a patchwork of vineyards and apple orchards that change colors beautifully with the seasons.
The right side is the 'money side' for skyline lovers. For the best photography, a morning flight will illuminate the Chicago buildings perfectly. Because this flight is exceptionally short and stays at a lower altitude (often below 15,000 feet), landmarks remain large and clear for the entire duration.
Chicago North Side
Aerial views of Lincoln Park, Wrigley Field, and the high-rise residential corridor along Lake Shore Drive.
Lake Michigan Crossing
A brief but scenic transit over the deep blue waters of the Great Lake, often seeing cargo ships below.
St. Joseph Pier
Clear views of the historic North and South Pier lighthouses marking the entrance to the St. Joseph River.
Southwest Michigan Forests
Lush greenery and inland lakes such as Paw Paw Lake as the plane begins its final descent into Kalamazoo.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun. This side provides a better view of the northern Chicago suburbs and the rugged Michigan coastline around Benton Harbor. In winter, look for dramatic lake-effect ice formations along the shoreline.
Distance: 196 km (122 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 20 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: AZO (42.234901428222656, -85.5521011352539)
Route Type: Domestic
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