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ORD → CDG
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (Paris)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this transatlantic crossing, offering the best chance to witness the Aurora Borealis during the night and the stunning glaciers of Greenland at daybreak.
Great Lakes System
Early views of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron as the flight heads northeast toward Canada.
Greenland Ice Sheet
Spectacular views of massive glaciers, fjords, and icebergs on clear northerly Great Circle routes.
Aurora Borealis
On overnight flights, the northern-facing windows provide front-row seats to the Northern Lights.
Irish Coastline
The first landfall in Europe often reveals the rugged, emerald-green cliffs of Ireland.
Northern France
A patchwork of rural French villages and historic farmland as you descend toward Paris.
Book a seat away from the wing to maximize your view of the horizon. Since most ORD-CDG flights are overnight, the left side provides the necessary darkness to spot the Aurora Borealis. Greenland is typically visible 4-5 hours into the flight; set an alarm if you plan to sleep.
Chicago Skyline
Excellent views of the Willis Tower and the lakefront if taking off toward the east.
St. Lawrence River
Deep views into the maritime provinces of Canada and the mouth of the St. Lawrence.
Atlantic Sunrise
A front-row seat to the sun rising over the Atlantic horizon as the flight nears Europe.
Brittany Coast
Views of the rocky outcrops and sandy beaches of western France's coastline.
Paris Basin
Broad views of the urban sprawl and suburbs of Paris during the final approach phase.
The right side is perfect for light-sensitive travelers who want to enjoy the sunrise without the intense glare of the northern sun later in the morning. If the plane lands at CDG from the east, you may catch a distant glimpse of the Eiffel Tower in the distance to the south.
Distance: 6,664 km (4,141 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 50 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)
Route Type: International
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