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ORD → ORF
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Norfolk International Airport (Norfolk)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Chicago skyline upon departure and more dramatic vistas of the Appalachian ridges and the James River during the descent into Norfolk.
Chicago Skyline
Unmatched views of the Willis Tower and the Lakefront shortly after departing O'Hare.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The distinctive, rolling mountain peaks and deep valleys of the central Appalachian range.
National Forests
Expansive green canopies of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.
James River
Watch the river widen significantly as it flows through Richmond toward the Atlantic.
Naval Station Norfolk
The world's largest naval base is often visible with massive aircraft carriers at the docks.
Virginia Beach
A glimpse of the Atlantic coastline and sandy resort beaches during the final approach pattern.
The right side is the definitive choice for seeing the Chicago Loop if the aircraft departs towards the east. For late afternoon flights, this side captures dramatic sunset colors over the mountain ridges of West Virginia and Virginia.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
Views of the Indiana Dunes and the southern curve of the Great Lake shortly after takeoff.
Allegheny Plateau
The rugged, forested terrain of northern West Virginia stretching toward the horizon.
Shenandoah Valley
A patchwork of fertile farmland nestled between parallel mountain ranges.
Chesapeake Bay
A vast vista of the estuary as the plane aligns for its final approach into the coastal region.
Hampton Cityscape
Aerial views of the historic coastal communities and bridges north of Norfolk.
Morning flights on the left provide soft lighting over the Appalachians without direct sun glare. During the final descent, watch for the distinct engineering marvel of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel to the northeast.
Distance: 1,152 km (716 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: ORF (36.89459991455078, -76.20120239257812)
Route Type: Domestic
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