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ORD → SGF
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Springfield Branson National Airport (Springfield)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the Chicago skyline shortly after departure and offers the most reliable view of the St. Louis Gateway Arch mid-flight.
Search flights from ORD to SGF
Chicago Skyline
A panoramic view of the Willis Tower and the downtown lakefront as the plane climbs south-west.
Illinois River
Visible as a winding blue artery cutting through the vast agricultural patchwork of central Illinois.
Gateway Arch
Look out for the silver glint of the Arch as the flight path passes the St. Louis metropolitan area.
Ozark Plateau
The transition from flat Illinois farmland to the rolling, densely forested hills of the Missouri Ozarks.
For the best experience, choose a seat behind the wing to avoid engine obstruction. On morning flights, the sun will be on the left, so keep the shade partially down until reaching cruising altitude. The St. Louis skyline is usually visible 35-40 minutes into the flight.
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Chicago Suburbs
The sprawling residential grid of the Chicagoland area stretching toward the western horizon.
Mississippi River
A massive geographic boundary visible as you cross the border from Illinois into Missouri.
Lake of the Ozarks
The distinct, dragon-shaped reservoir is often visible to the north during the initial descent into Springfield.
Mark Twain National Forest
Expansive views of Missouri's deep green canopy and rugged terrain as the plane prepares to land.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It provides a better view of the Mississippi River crossing and the northern reaches of the Ozarks. Watch for the 'Dragon' shape of the Lake of the Ozarks about 15 minutes before landing.
Book Hotels in SpringfieldDistance: 705 km (438 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 11 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: SGF (37.24570084, -93.38860321)
Route Type: Domestic
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