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ORD destination photo
PNS destination photo

ORDPNS

Our Recommendation
7.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the Gulf Coast approach, including the emerald waters and white sands of the Florida Panhandle and the expanses of Mobile Bay.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌾

Illinois Farmland

Infinite geometric patterns of the American Midwest stretching to the western horizon.

🚢

Ohio River

The winding industrial lifeline that marks the transition between the Midwest and the South.

🚀

Rocket City

Distant views of Huntsville and the rolling terrain of the Tennessee River valley.

⛴️

Mobile Bay

The vast estuary where the Mobile River meets the Gulf, often visible during descent.

🏖️

Gulf Coast Beaches

Striking white quartz sand and turquoise waters during the final approach into the Panhandle.

A late afternoon or sunset flight is ideal for the right side to see the sun reflecting off the Gulf of Mexico. During the descent, watch for the distinctive white sandbars and coastal lagoons that define the Florida coastline.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Aerial views of the Willis Tower and the Lake Michigan shoreline immediately after takeoff.

🌊

Lake Michigan

The massive expanse of the Great Lakes visible during the initial ascent.

🎸

Nashville

Flyover views of the Cumberland River and the urban sprawl of Middle Tennessee.

🌲

Southern Forests

Dense green landscapes of the southern Appalachian foothills and eastern Alabama.

⚓

Pensacola Bay

Final views of the naval air station and the long bridges spanning the inner bay.

Best for morning departures to catch the sun lighting up the Chicago skyline behind the plane. Keep an eye out for the Tennessee River and the grid-like city planning of Nashville as you head south.

Top Activities in Pensacola
Route Information

Distance: 1,281 km (796 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min

Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Arrival: PNS (30.473400115967003, -87.18659973144501)

Route Type: Domestic

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