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ORD → MCI
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Kansas City International Airport (Kansas City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most iconic views, including the potential for a stunning Chicago skyline panorama upon departure and superior angles of the Missouri River bends near Kansas City.
Search flights from ORD to MCI
Chicago Skyline
If taking off to the east or looping south, you will see the Willis Tower and the dense downtown skyscrapers.
Lake Michigan
Expansive views of the shoreline and the blue waters of the lake during the initial climb.
Illinois River Valley
The plane crosses over the industrial and agricultural corridors of central Illinois.
Mississippi River
A clear view of the massive river forming the border between Illinois and Missouri.
Missouri River Bends
Dramatic, winding river loops visible as the flight approaches the Kansas City metro area.
Look out the window immediately after departure; if O'Hare is using an east-flow runway configuration, the left side gets a front-row seat to the Chicago Loop. During the mid-flight, the left side is also better for spotting the confluence of major rivers to the south. Opt for a window seat behind the wing for unobstructed photos of the terrain.
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O'Hare Terminals
A great top-down view of one of the world's busiest airport infrastructures during taxi and takeoff.
Midwestern Patchwork
Extensive views of the 'breadbasket' with perfectly rectangular farm plots in varying shades of green and gold.
Des Moines River
Viewing the northern tributaries that feed into the larger river systems of the Midwest.
I-35 Corridor
The major north-south transit vein visible as you cross into the Missouri and Kansas region.
North Kansas City
Suburban landscapes and local reservoirs visible during the final descent into MCI.
The right side is excellent for morning flights as it remains in the shade, providing better visibility without sun glare. If the flight path takes a more northerly route, you will see more of the rolling hills of northern Missouri. This side is also best for watching the sunset on late afternoon flights heading west.
Book Hotels in Kansas CityDistance: 647 km (402 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: MCI (39.2976, -94.713898)
Route Type: Domestic
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