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ORD → LAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Capital City Airport (Lansing)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the Chicago lakefront and the expansive blue waters of Lake Michigan followed by the scenic Michigan shoreline.
Search flights from ORD to LAN
North Shore Coastline
Excellent views of Evanston and the northern Chicago suburbs shortly after departure from O'Hare.
Lake Michigan
A vast expanse of deep blue water with occasional sightings of cargo ships heading to Chicago ports.
Michigan Dunes
The sandy ridges and lighthouses of the West Michigan shoreline as the plane enters Michigan airspace.
Central Michigan Farmland
A patchwork of agricultural fields and small woodlots typical of the Great Lakes region.
Choose the left side for evening flights to catch the sunset reflection on Lake Michigan. Early morning flights will have the sun on the opposite side, reducing glare for photography. Watch for the Grand River as you descend into the Lansing area.
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Chicago Skyline
A dramatic view of the Willis Tower and the downtown skyscrapers during the initial climb if departing east.
Indiana Dunes
The southern tip of the lake featuring the industrial coast and the protected dunes area.
Michigan State University
Look for the sprawling campus in East Lansing, including Spartan Stadium, during the final approach into LAN.
Grand River Valley
The winding path of Michigan's longest river as it flows through the outskirts of the capital region.
The right side is ideal if departing on an eastbound runway for a direct view of the downtown Chicago loop. Keep your eyes peeled for the distinct layout of the MSU campus just before landing at Capital City Airport if the approach is from the south.
Book Hotels in LansingDistance: 287 km (178 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 29 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: LAN (42.77870178222656, -84.58740234375)
Route Type: Domestic
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