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ORD → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning approach over the rugged Picos de Europa mountains in northern Spain and provides a more comfortable view during the morning sunrise, avoiding the direct glare found on the right side of the cabin.
Chicago & Lake Michigan
Glimpse the iconic Chicago skyline and the vast blue expanse of Lake Michigan immediately after takeoff from O'Hare.
Newfoundland Coast
View the rugged, rocky cliffs and potential icebergs near the edge of the North American continent before the Atlantic crossing.
Bay of Biscay
The transition from the deep Atlantic to the coastal waters of Northern Spain, often showcasing dramatic cloud formations.
Picos de Europa
Dramatic limestone peaks in Northern Spain's Cantabrian Mountains visible during the initial stages of descent into Madrid.
Castilian Plateau
The high, arid plains and ancient villages of central Spain as the aircraft approaches the Madrid metropolitan area.
Since most flights from ORD to MAD are overnight, choose the left side to enjoy the mountain scenery of Northern Spain without the direct blinding glare of the sunrise. If you depart via a northern track, keep an eye out for the Aurora Borealis over Canada during the dark hours. For landing at Barajas, the left side often provides a clearer view of the airport's distinctive architecture if landing from the north.
Atlantic Sunrise
Witness a spectacular sunrise over the North Atlantic horizon mid-flight as you travel eastward toward Europe.
Canadian Maritimes
Aerial views of Nova Scotia and the Atlantic provinces' deeply indented coastlines and forested islands.
Galician Rias
The unique fjord-like inlets of the Northwest Spanish coast if the flight path tracks slightly south of the standard route.
Madrid Expansion
Sweeping views of the southern and eastern suburbs of Madrid and the Jarama river valley during final approach.
The right side is ideal for sunrise enthusiasts, though be prepared for intense light as you cross into Europe; a sleep mask is recommended. In winter, the sun rises later, potentially aligning with your crossing of the Spanish coastline. Keep window shades down during the middle portion of the flight to maintain cabin darkness for sleeping passengers.
Distance: 6,746 km (4,192 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 56 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
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