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ORD → FAR
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Hector International Airport (Fargo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of Lake Michigan upon departure, the Wisconsin capital isthmus, the sprawling Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, and the iconic glacial lake regions of Minnesota.
Lake Michigan
Sweeping views of the deep blue water and the scenic North Shore suburbs immediately after takeoff.
Madison Isthmus
The unique city layout of Madison, Wisconsin, nestled between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.
Twin Cities Metro
Panoramic views of Minneapolis and St. Paul, including the stadiums and the Mississippi River gorge.
Land of 10,000 Lakes
Dense clusters of glacial lakes reflecting the sky throughout central and western Minnesota.
Fargo Approach
Detailed views of the North Dakota State University campus and downtown Fargo during descent.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to see the sunlight glinting off the thousands of lakes in Minnesota. If departing O'Hare to the east before turning west, this side provides an unparalleled view of the Chicago lakefront. For nighttime flights, the city lights of the Twin Cities are more frequently visible from this side of the aircraft.
Chicago Skyline
Aerial perspective of the Willis Tower and the dense downtown Loop during western departures.
Midwestern Heartland
Expansive views of the geometric agricultural patterns across Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin.
Mississippi River
Crossing the massive waterway near the border of Wisconsin and Minnesota, showing its winding path and islands.
Red River Valley
The remarkably flat and fertile basin floor that signals the final approach into North Dakota.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Chicago skyline during a westward takeoff. This side also avoids direct sunlight on afternoon flights, making it easier to photograph the Mississippi River crossing without glare. Watch for the transformation from rolling hills to the dead-flat Red River Valley floor in the final 20 minutes of flight.
Distance: 895 km (556 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: FAR (46.92070007324219, -96.81580352783205)
Route Type: Domestic
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