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ORD → SDF
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Louisville International Standiford Field (Louisville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most iconic views of the Chicago skyline and the Lake Michigan shoreline immediately after takeoff, along with a superior angle of the Ohio River and downtown Louisville during the approach.
Search flights from ORD to SDF
Chicago Skyline
Dramatic views of the Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, and the dense cluster of skyscrapers in the Loop.
Lake Michigan
The vast blue expanse of the lake and the curved coastline heading south toward Indiana.
Gary Industrial Coast
A bird's-eye view of the massive steel mills and industrial infrastructure along the southern tip of Lake Michigan.
Indianapolis Area
Distant views of the Indiana state capital and its surrounding metropolitan sprawl midway through the flight.
Ohio River
The winding river border between Indiana and Kentucky, featuring several prominent bridges as you enter Louisville airspace.
Book a window seat on the left for the best chance to capture the Chicago skyline; these views are most common when the wind necessitates an eastbound departure. For lighting, morning flights are ideal as the sun will illuminate the city buildings from the east. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff.
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O'Hare Terminals
An excellent perspective of one of the world's busiest airports and its intricate runway system during taxi and climb.
Midwestern Heartland
The geometric beauty of Indiana's vast agricultural grid, particularly vibrant during late spring and summer.
Wabash River
The meandering path of the Wabash River cutting through the rural Indiana landscape.
Churchill Downs
If the flight approaches SDF from the south, you may spot the iconic twin spires of the home of the Kentucky Derby.
Kentucky Knobs
The beginning of the rolling green hills and forested ridges characteristic of the Bluegrass region.
The right side is perfect for sunset flights, offering a warm glow over the Indiana prairies. If you are a fan of horse racing, keep a close watch during the final descent into Louisville, as Churchill Downs is often visible if the aircraft performs a southern approach pattern.
Book Hotels in LouisvilleDistance: 461 km (286 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 46 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: SDF (38.1744, -85.736)
Route Type: Domestic
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