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ORD → DAY
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to James M Cox Dayton International Airport (Dayton)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this route because it offers iconic views of the Chicago skyline upon departure and provides the best perspective of downtown Dayton during the final approach.
Chicago Skyline
Unparalleled views of the Sears (Willis) Tower, Hancock Building, and the dense urban core of Chicago shortly after takeoff.
Calumet Harbor
Watch for the complex network of shipping canals, locks, and maritime traffic connecting the Great Lakes to the river systems.
Wabash River
The winding curves of the Wabash River stand out against the geometric precision of the surrounding Indiana farmlands.
Downtown Dayton
On final approach, you get a clear view of the Dayton city center and the Great Miami River winding through the valley.
The Chicago skyline is the star of this route; sit on the right side for the best chance to see it, especially if departing on the 9 or 10 runways. For evening flights, you will enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Indiana plains. Keep your eyes peeled for Wright-Patterson Air Force Base just east of the city as you land.
O'Hare Infrastructure
Excellent views of the massive terminal complexes and runway systems at ORD during takeoff.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
Detailed views of the northern Indiana shoreline and the southern tip of Lake Michigan shortly after departure.
Gary Industrial Zone
Aerial perspective of the sprawling steel mills and heavy industrial infrastructure along the Indiana coast.
Midwestern Patchwork
Extensive views of the highly organized agricultural grid and small farming communities of rural Indiana.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. During winter months, look for interesting ice formations along the Lake Michigan shoreline immediately after takeoff. This side provides a better view of the lake's vastness if the plane takes an easterly departure path.
Distance: 386 km (240 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 39 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: DAY (39.90240097045898, -84.21939849853516)
Route Type: Domestic
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