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ORD → DEN
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Denver International Airport (Denver)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior dramatic reveal of the Rocky Mountains, specifically Longs Peak and the Northern Front Range, during the descent into Denver.
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O'Hare Terminals
A bird's eye view of the massive terminal layout and runway complexity during departure.
Platte River Valley
Following the historic route used by the Oregon Trail and the Transcontinental Railroad across Nebraska.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Spectacular views of the jagged peaks and alpine tundra as the plane nears the Front Range.
Longs Peak
The iconic 14,259-foot mountain dominates the horizon during the final descent into DEN.
Denver Terminal Tents
The famous white fabric roof of the Jeppesen Terminal is often visible during the landing sequence.
The right side is essential for seeing the highest concentration of mountain peaks during the arrival. On morning flights, the sun will be behind you, perfectly illuminating the snow-capped Rockies. Be sure to look for the transition from the flat Great Plains to the sudden vertical wall of the Front Range.
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Chicago Skyline
Stunning views of the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan if departing on southern or eastern runways.
Mississippi River
A wide crossing of the United States' primary waterway near the Illinois and Iowa border.
Iowa Farmland
An endless patchwork of agricultural grids and center-pivot irrigation circles.
Pikes Peak
The southernmost prominent peak of the Front Range visible in the distance during the approach.
Sit on the left if you want a chance to see the Chicago loop immediately after takeoff. For evening flights, this side will be facing away from the sun, providing clearer views without glare during the flight across the plains. Keep an eye out for the distinct geometric patterns of the Nebraska farms as you approach Colorado.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,426 km (886 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 54 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Route Type: Domestic
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