Loading map...

ORD destination photo
CMH destination photo

ORDCMH

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers the most iconic views, including the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline upon departure, followed by the impressive Ohio Stadium and downtown Columbus during the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Unmatched views of the Willis Tower, Hancock Building, and the dense skyscrapers of the Loop during eastward departures.

🏭

Gary Industrial Works

The sprawling industrial landscape and steel mills of Northwest Indiana along the southern coast of Lake Michigan.

🌽

Hoosier Farmland

A patchwork quilt of agricultural fields across Indiana, showcasing the Midwest's rural geometry from 30,000 feet.

🏟️

Ohio Stadium

The iconic 'Horseshoe' stadium and the massive Ohio State University campus during the final descent into CMH.

🌆

Downtown Columbus

A scenic view of the Ohio Statehouse and the downtown skyline if landing on runways 10L or 10R.

The right side is premier for photographers. On departure, look out immediately for the iconic Sears (Willis) Tower. During the afternoon, the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for the Indiana farmlands and the Columbus city center. Ask the crew if you are landing from the west for the best stadium views.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

Indiana Dunes

The unique sandy peaks and shoreline of the Indiana Dunes National Park visible shortly after crossing the lake tip.

🏟️

South Bend

Views of the University of Notre Dame campus and the golden dome if the flight path tracks slightly north.

🏢

Fort Wayne

A clear view of Indiana's second-largest city and its surrounding suburban sprawl mid-flight.

🐍

Scioto River

The winding path of the Scioto River as it meanders through the central Ohio landscape towards the airport.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. This side provides a better view of the southern tip of Lake Michigan and the northern Indiana urban centers. On clear days, you may see the distant silhouette of the Michigan shoreline before turning south towards Columbus.

Top Activities in Columbus
Route Information

Distance: 475 km (295 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 48 min

Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Arrival: CMH (39.998001, -82.891899)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.