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ORD → SBN
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to South Bend Regional Airport (South Bend)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a spectacular front-row seat to the iconic Chicago skyline immediately after takeoff, followed by a unique aerial perspective of the industrial shoreline and the Indiana Dunes National Park.
Search flights from ORD to SBN
Chicago Skyline
Unparalleled views of the Willis Tower, the Hancock Building, and the dense cluster of downtown skyscrapers.
Navy Pier
The famous pier and its ferris wheel are clearly visible as the plane crosses the shoreline.
Gary Industrial Works
A fascinating look at the massive steel mills and industrial infrastructure along the southern tip of the lake.
Indiana Dunes
The contrast of high sand dunes and forest within the National Park along the Lake Michigan coastline.
The right side is the clear winner for sightseeing. Morning flights offer the best lighting on the Chicago skyline buildings. Since the altitude remains low for this short 'hop,' the detail of the city and the Indiana shoreline is much sharper than on typical commercial flights. Be ready with your camera immediately after gear-up.
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Lake Michigan Expanse
Deep blue views of the vast Great Lake as the aircraft tracks east-southeast toward South Bend.
North Shore Suburbs
Aerial views of the residential layouts and tree-lined streets of Evanston and Wilmette shortly after departure.
Northwestern University
The distinct lakeside campus and Ryan Field are often visible along the shoreline of Evanston.
Choose the left side for a more tranquil flight experience with views of the open water. This side is particularly scenic during winter when ice shelves often form along the lake's edge. Because the flight is exceptionally short, usually under 25 minutes of air time, keep your window shade open from taxi to touchdown.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 135 km (84 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 14 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: SBN (41.70869827270508, -86.31729888916016)
Route Type: Domestic
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