Loading map...
ORD → RIC
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Richmond International Airport (Richmond)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Chicago skyline during departure and the most dramatic perspectives of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley during the descent into Virginia.
Chicago Skyline
A breathtaking view of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers shortly after takeoff from O'Hare.
Midwestern Patchwork
Perfect geometric patterns of Indiana and Ohio farmland, punctuated by massive wind farms.
Monongahela Forest
Expansive views of the dense, rolling Appalachian wilderness in West Virginia.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The iconic blue-hued mountain range appearing as a series of long, parallel ridges.
Shenandoah Valley
The lush, historic valley tucked between mountain ranges as you approach Richmond.
Book the right side for afternoon flights to avoid direct glare and see the sun lighting up the Appalachian ridges. This side provides the best chance to see the James River winding toward Richmond during final approach.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
Stunning views of the deep blue lake and the North Shore suburbs during the initial climb.
Rust Belt Cities
Distant views of South Bend and the industrial corridors of Northern Indiana and Ohio.
Allegheny Plateau
Rugged, forested terrain and winding river valleys throughout West Virginia and Pennsylvania.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to see the sunrise over Lake Michigan. Keep an eye out for the distinctive grid of Northern Ohio mid-flight for interesting agricultural patterns.
Distance: 1,032 km (641 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: RIC (37.50519943237305, -77.3197021484375)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.