Loading map...
ORD → COU
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Columbia Regional Airport (Columbia)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side typically provides the most iconic views, including the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan immediately after takeoff, followed by expansive views of the Mississippi River crossing.
Search flights from ORD to COU
Chicago Skyline
Unmatched views of the Willis Tower, the Loop, and the dense urban core during departure.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
Deep blue water contrasting with the city's edge as the plane climbs to cruising altitude.
Illinois River
Watch for the winding curves of the Illinois River as it cuts through the central plains.
Mississippi River Crossing
A significant geographic milestone marking the border between Illinois and Missouri.
Missouri Farmlands
The transition to more rolling hills and varied agricultural patterns in central Missouri.
For the most dramatic experience, choose an early morning flight to see the sun reflecting off the Chicago lakefront. Sit behind the wing to ensure your view of the skyline isn't obstructed by engine glare. On the descent into COU, the left side often captures the lush greenery of the surrounding state parks.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United States
O'Hare Infrastructure
A bird's-eye view of the complex runway systems and terminal layouts of one of the world's busiest hubs.
Suburban Grid
The perfect geometric sprawl of Chicago's western suburbs stretching toward the horizon.
Corn Belt Patterns
Vast, colorful patchwork of agricultural fields that define the Midwestern landscape.
Quincy Landmarks
Potential views of smaller regional hubs like Quincy as you track southwest.
Missouri River Valley
Distant views of the Missouri River winding south of the Columbia airport during final approach.
Choose the right side for sunset flights; the 'Golden Hour' light across the flat Illinois prairies is spectacular. This side is also better if you enjoy watching the mechanics of the wing during landing, as crosswinds at COU often require interesting pilot corrections visible from this angle.
Book Hotels in ColumbiaDistance: 507 km (315 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 51 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: COU (38.81809997558594, -92.21959686279295)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.