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ORD → SAL
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (San Salvador)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most dramatic views of the Central American volcanic chain and the Pacific coastline during the descent into El Salvador.
Mississippi River
Watch the winding curves of the Great River as you fly south over the American Heartland.
Yucatan Peninsula
Dense tropical jungles and the western edge of Mexico's famous peninsula.
Guatemalan Volcanoes
Spectacular views of high-altitude peaks like Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango in the distance.
Pacific Coastline
The striking contrast between the dark volcanic sand and the white Pacific surf during the arrival phase.
San Salvador Volcano
The iconic 'El Boqueron' crater which towers over the metropolitan area of the capital.
The right side is superior for volcano spotting. As you descend through Guatemala and El Salvador, look for the 'Ring of Fire' peaks. Afternoon flights on this side avoid the harsh morning sun, offering clearer views of the Pacific coast. Aim for a seat ahead of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the volcanic craters.
Chicago Skyline
Aerial views of the Loop and Lake Michigan shortly after takeoff from O'Hare.
Mississippi Delta
The intricate network of wetlands and bayous where the river meets the Gulf of Mexico.
Caribbean Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue sea as the flight path skims the western Caribbean.
Honduran Highlands
Rugged, mist-covered mountain ranges visible as the plane enters Central American airspace.
Lake Ilopango
A massive volcanic caldera lake located just east of San Salvador, seen during the final approach.
Choose this side on morning flights to see the sunrise over the water. It also provides the best perspective of the volcanic Lake Ilopango if the plane approaches from the east. Keep your camera ready during the first 10 minutes of flight for Chicago views.
Distance: 3,175 km (1,973 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 44 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: SAL (13.4409, -89.055702)
Route Type: International
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