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ORD → CID
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to The Eastern Iowa Airport (Cedar Rapids)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the scenic Mississippi River bluffs and the edge of the Driftless Area, along with potential glimpses of Lake Michigan upon departure.
O'Hare Operations
A massive aerial view of the terminal complexes and intersecting runways of one of the world's busiest airports.
Lake Michigan Horizon
Glimpse the deep blue of Lake Michigan and the North Shore coastline during the early ascent phase.
Mississippi Bluffs
Rugged, wooded limestone bluffs and the Savanna-Sabula bridge area where the river is widest.
Wapsipinicon River
Scenic oxbow lakes and dense forest canopy along the winding Wapsipinicon River just before landing.
Choose the right side for the most dramatic geographic features near the Mississippi River. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun, making it easier to spot the rugged terrain of the Driftless Area.
Chicago Suburbs
Expansive views of the sprawling western suburbs like Naperville and Aurora during the initial climb.
Fox River
The winding path of the Fox River as it flows through the historic river towns of Northern Illinois.
Mississippi River Crossing
Aerial perspective of the mighty Mississippi near Clinton, Iowa, featuring industrial ports and barge traffic.
Iowa Heartland
The classic geometric patchwork of gold and green corn and soybean fields extending to the horizon.
Sit on the left for potential views of the Chicago skyline if the aircraft departs toward the east before turning west. Late afternoon flights provide excellent 'golden hour' lighting on the rural Iowa landscape.
Distance: 315 km (196 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 32 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: CID (41.88470077514648, -91.71080017089844)
Route Type: Domestic
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