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ORD destination photo
GSO destination photo

ORDGSO

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is prioritized for its spectacular departure views of the Chicago skyline and the scenic approach over the northern Blue Ridge Mountains.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏙️

Chicago Loop

Unmatched views of the Willis Tower and the dense cluster of downtown skyscrapers immediately after takeoff.

🌊

Lake Michigan

The striking contrast between the deep blue water and the perfectly gridded Chicago streets.

🌳

Appalachian Ridges

The folded mountain chains of West Virginia visible in long, parallel lines across the landscape.

🏔️

Blue Ridge Mountains

Breathtaking views of the hazy blue peaks as the flight crosses into the mid-Atlantic region.

Sit on the left for the iconic Chicago skyline departure. For photography, afternoon flights are best as the sun is on the opposite side, illuminating the mountains. Look for the sharp transition from the flat Midwest to the rising Appalachians about 40 minutes into the flight.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏭

Gary Industrial Area

A fascinating look at the massive steel mills and industrial infrastructure along the southern lake tip.

🛶

Ohio River

The wide, serpentine path of the Ohio River forming the border between state lines.

🌲

George Washington Forest

Expansive views of untouched wilderness and deep valleys in the Virginia highlands.

⛰️

Pilot Mountain

A distinct, round-topped mountain that stands alone, serving as a landmark for the descent into GSO.

The right side offers great views of the industrial heartland and the solitary peak of Pilot Mountain during descent. In the late evening, this side provides a view of the sunset over the mountains. Keep an eye out for the winding river systems of the Ohio Valley midway through the trip.

Top Activities in Greensboro
Route Information

Distance: 948 km (589 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min

Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Arrival: GSO (36.097801208496094, -79.93730163574219)

Route Type: Domestic

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