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ORD → RST
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Rochester International Airport (Rochester)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the Chicago skyline on departure and the scenic Driftless Area bluffs along the Mississippi River during the descent.
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Chicago Skyline
Depending on the departure runway, you can catch a stunning view of the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan.
Driftless Area Bluffs
The unique unglaciated terrain near the Mississippi River, featuring dramatic limestone bluffs and deep valleys.
Rochester Cityscape
Clear views of the Gonda Building and the iconic Mayo Clinic complex as you prepare for landing at RST.
Book a right-side window seat for morning flights to see the Chicago skyline illuminated by the rising sun. During the final 15 minutes of flight, watch closely for the Mississippi River; the terrain here is significantly more rugged than the rest of the Midwest.
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Chicagoland Suburbs
Bird's-eye view of the dense residential grids and expansive suburban sprawl west of O'Hare.
Illinois Prairies
Vast stretches of productive agricultural land forming a patchwork quilt of greens and golds.
Upper Mississippi Crossing
A distinct view of the wide river valley and the transition from Illinois into the Iowa and Minnesota border region.
The left side is preferable for late afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. While less scenic than the right, it provides a very clear view of the massive wind farms located in Northern Illinois.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 431 km (268 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 43 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: RST (43.90829849243164, -92.5)
Route Type: Domestic
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