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ORD destination photo
IAH destination photo

ORDIAH

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior chance of viewing the iconic Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan immediately after takeoff, along with the scenic Piney Woods of East Texas during arrival.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Unmatched views of the Willis Tower, the Loop, and the dense urban core of Chicago shortly after departure from O'Hare.

🌊

Lake Michigan Shoreline

Beautiful views of the deep blue lake waters and the curve of the Illinois and Indiana shorelines as the plane turns south.

〰️

Mississippi River

Aerial perspective of the winding Mississippi River near the convergence of Missouri, Illinois, and Arkansas.

🌲

East Texas Piney Woods

Lush, dense evergreen forests characterizing the landscape of the Deep South and East Texas as you approach Houston.

💧

Lake Houston

A large reservoir visible on the final descent, marking the northeastern edge of the Houston metropolitan area.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise over the landscape, though be prepared for some glare. This side is most likely to catch the classic 'postcard' view of downtown Chicago if the wind necessitates a south or east departure. During descent into IAH, look for the sprawl of the Ship Channel in the distance.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
✈️

O'Hare Airport Layout

An impressive view of the massive terminal complex and runway intersections of one of the world's busiest aviation hubs.

⛰️

Ozark Plateau

Rolling hills and plateau terrain of southern Missouri and northern Arkansas, offering varied textures and colors.

🏞️

Arkansas River

A major waterway crossing through the landscape of central Arkansas, often visible mid-flight.

🚤

Lake Conroe

A prominent recreational lake north of Houston, usually clearly visible during the descent into Bush Intercontinental.

🌳

Sam Houston National Forest

Expansive green canopy and wilderness area located just north of the Houston suburbs.

The right side is ideal for afternoon and evening flights to avoid direct sunlight and enjoy a cooler cabin. It offers better views of the Ozark transition and the recreational lakes north of Houston. If landing from the north (Runway 15 or 26), you might catch a distant glimpse of the Houston Energy Corridor skyscrapers.

Top Activities in Houston
Route Information

Distance: 1,491 km (926 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 59 min

Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Arrival: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Route Type: Domestic

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