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ORD → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most iconic views, starting with a potential vista of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan at takeoff, followed by a higher probability of seeing the Manhattan skyline during the descent into JFK.
Chicago Skyline
Spectacular views of the Willis Tower and lakefront landmarks immediately after takeoff when departing eastward.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
The beautiful transition from the urban sprawl of Chicago to the blue waters and Indiana Dunes.
Lake Erie
The northern Ohio coastline and the vast expanse of one of the Great Lakes often visible mid-flight.
Northern Appalachians
The dense forests and rolling peaks of northern Pennsylvania and the Allegheny Plateau.
Hudson Valley
Lush greenery and the winding Hudson River as the plane begins its final descent into the New York area.
Manhattan Views
On many standard arrival patterns, the left side offers a stunning panorama of the NYC skyline and Central Park.
For the best experience, book a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat blur. On morning flights, the sun will be on the right side, providing perfect front-lit conditions for photography of the Chicago and New York skylines. This side is particularly favored for night flights to see the dense grid of city lights in the Northeast Corridor.
Midwest Farmlands
The intricate geometric patterns of Indiana and Ohio's agricultural heartland.
Pittsburgh Region
Distances views of the 'Steel City' and its unique topography shaped by the three rivers.
Ridge-and-Valley Province
The distinct, long parallel ridges of the Pennsylvania Appalachians create a unique geological visual.
Philadelphia Area
Often visible to the south during the transition over the Mid-Atlantic region.
Jersey Shore
The sandy coastline and Atlantic Ocean as the flight turns toward its final approach into JFK.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind the plane, reducing glare. It offers superior views of the geological formations of the Appalachian Mountains. If the flight approaches JFK from the south over the ocean, the right side provides a great view of the Rockaways and the Atlantic coastline.
Distance: 1,188 km (738 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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