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ORD destination photo
PHX destination photo

ORDPHX

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior experience with iconic views of the Chicago skyline upon departure and a dramatic descent over the Superstition Mountains and downtown Phoenix.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Unrivaled views of the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan coastline shortly after takeoff.

🛶

Missouri River

See the winding river valley as the flight traverses the Kansas-Missouri border region.

🎨

Painted Desert

Vibrant, multi-colored badlands visible in the distance across Northern Arizona.

⛰️

Superstition Mountains

Legendary volcanic peaks that provide a stunning backdrop on the approach to Phoenix.

🌇

Downtown Phoenix

Clear views of the city's skyscraper core during standard western landing patterns.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the 'golden hour' glow on the Arizona desert. Choose a seat ahead of or behind the wing (usually rows 1-10 or 25+) to ensure the wing doesn't block the Superstition Mountains. This side typically offers the best view of the Phoenix city center when landing to the west.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Mississippi River

View the massive waterway marking the border between Illinois and Iowa early in the flight.

🏔️

Santa Fe National Forest

Observe the high-altitude peaks and rugged terrain of Northern New Mexico's wilderness.

🌵

Mogollon Rim

A massive geological cliff defining the southwestern edge of the Colorado Plateau.

🏜️

Mazatzal Wilderness

Vast stretches of Arizona mountain ranges and deep canyons just before the final descent.

Sit on the left to capture the dramatic transition from the flat Great Plains to the high desert plateaus. This side provides excellent views of the Mogollon Rim approximately 40 minutes before landing. In winter, watch for the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains as you cross into New Mexico.

Top Activities in Phoenix
Route Information

Distance: 2,313 km (1,437 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 5 min

Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Arrival: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)

Route Type: Domestic

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