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ORD → MDT
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Harrisburg International Airport (Harrisburg)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of the Chicago skyline and the Lake Michigan shoreline immediately after takeoff, followed by superior views of the Susquehanna River on arrival.
Chicago Skyline
Unmatched views of the Willis Tower and the Lake Michigan waterfront if the flight departs to the east.
Lake Michigan
The deep blue expanse of the southern tip of the lake and the Indiana Dunes shoreline.
Midwestern Grids
Perfectly geometric farmlands of Indiana and Ohio, creating a green and tan patchwork quilt effect.
Appalachian Ridges
The distinct linear ridges and valleys of the Pennsylvania mountain range as you cross the state line.
Susquehanna River
The wide, island-dotted river valley that serves as the final landmark before touchdown at MDT.
Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. If departing ORD via the north-east flow, the turn provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the 'Loop' and Navy Pier.
ORD Infrastructure
A detailed view of O'Hare's complex runway systems and terminal architecture during initial climb.
Columbus Suburbs
The sprawling residential layouts of central Ohio often visible in the distance during mid-flight.
Allegheny Plateau
Rugged, densely forested terrain of the central Pennsylvania highlands.
Hersheypark
The distinctive silhouettes of rollercoasters and the chocolate factory landmarks during the descent.
Three Mile Island
The iconic cooling towers located on the Susquehanna River just south of the airport approach path.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the wings. Keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of flight for a glimpse of the Hershey landmarks and the cooling towers south of Harrisburg.
Distance: 954 km (593 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: MDT (40.1935005188, -76.7633972168)
Route Type: Domestic
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