Loading map...
ORD → PBI
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Palm Beach International Airport (West Palm Beach)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most iconic views, starting with the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan, moving through the Appalachian ridgelines, and concluding with a scenic approach over the Atlantic coastline.
Chicago Skyline
A breathtaking view of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers immediately after departing O'Hare.
Lake Michigan
The vast blue expanse of the lake creates a stunning contrast against the urban sprawl of the South Side.
Appalachian Ridges
Visible as you cross through Tennessee and North Carolina, featuring rolling green peaks and valleys.
The Space Coast
Views of Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center launch pads as you begin your descent into Florida.
Florida Gold Coast
Sparkling turquoise waters and high-rise condos along the Atlantic shore during the final approach into PBI.
Sit on the left for a sunrise view on morning flights. During the descent, keep your camera ready as planes often fly out over the Atlantic and turn back west, providing a perfect panoramic view of the Florida beaches.
Ohio River Valley
Dramatic bends and industrial landscapes visible as you cross the border between Indiana and Kentucky.
Atlanta Metro
A wide-angle view of the dense canopy and urban sprawl of the Southeast's largest metropolitan area.
Lake Okeechobee
The massive 'Inland Sea' of Florida is visible to the west shortly before the descent into West Palm Beach.
The Everglades
The unique, grassy wetlands of central Florida stretch toward the horizon as the plane heads south.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It offers the best perspective of Lake Okeechobee, which is the most significant inland landmark in Florida. Watch for the dramatic transition from rural farmland to the dense Everglades ecosystem.
Distance: 1,844 km (1,146 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 28 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: PBI (26.68320083618164, -80.09559631347656)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.