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ORD → PIA
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (Peoria)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally preferred as it offers a higher probability of viewing the iconic Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline during the initial climb, followed by a direct view of the industrial landmarks along the Illinois River valley.
Search flights from ORD to PIA
Chicago Skyline
A stunning panoramic view of the Willis Tower and the dense downtown skyscrapers during the initial ascent.
Chicagoland Speedway
The massive oval of the Joliet racing complex is often visible as the plane heads southwest.
Illinois River Confluence
Watch for the meeting of the Kankakee and Des Plaines rivers forming the Illinois River near Channahon.
Caterpillar Facilities
As you descend into Peoria, the massive manufacturing footprints and proving grounds are prominent on the left.
Book a seat on the left to maximize your chances of seeing the city. Because the flight is exceptionally short (often under 45 minutes), stay alert immediately after takeoff. For evening flights, the left side benefits from the 'Golden Hour' glow reflecting off the Chicago lakefront and the river basins.
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O'Hare Airfield
An expansive top-down view of the complex runway systems and terminal gates during the taxi and takeoff phase.
Suburban Grid
The perfect geometric layout of the Chicago suburbs, stretching toward the horizon.
Agricultural Patterns
Vast stretches of Illinois farmland showcasing a patchwork quilt of corn and soybean fields.
Fox River Valley
Glances of the winding Fox River as it snakes through the western suburbs of Aurora and Elgin.
The right side is excellent for those interested in airport operations and the sheer scale of O'Hare. It also provides the best views of the sunset if you are flying in the late afternoon. During the autumn harvest, look for the distinct dust trails of combines working the fields across the rural landscape.
Book Hotels in PeoriaDistance: 209 km (130 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 21 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: PIA (40.664199829100006, -89.6932983398)
Route Type: Domestic
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