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ORD → SLC
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the departure over Lake Michigan and the spectacular approach over the Great Salt Lake, which is the highlight of the journey.
Lake Michigan
Sweeping views of the blue water and northern Chicago suburbs during the initial climb.
Nebraska Sandhills
The unique, undulating grass-stabilized sand dunes of north-central Nebraska.
Flaming Gorge
The vibrant red rocks and turquoise waters of the Flaming Gorge Reservoir near the Wyoming-Utah border.
Great Salt Lake
The iconic view of the vast, salty waters and Antelope Island during the final approach into SLC.
The right side is essential for viewing the Great Salt Lake, especially if the plane approaches SLC from the north. For the best photography of the salt flats and lake colors, try to book a flight that arrives in the early afternoon when the sun is overhead.
Chicago Skyline
Excellent views of the Loop and Lake Michigan shoreline shortly after takeoff from ORD.
Mississippi River
A clear view of the massive river divide near the border of Illinois and Iowa.
Platte River Valley
Follow the historic Oregon Trail route across the agricultural heartland of Nebraska.
Wasatch Mountains
Stunning, close-up views of the rugged, snow-capped peaks as you descend into the Salt Lake Valley.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun at your back, providing better lighting for the Wasatch Range. This side is better for seeing the sprawling suburban landscape of the Salt Lake Valley upon arrival.
Distance: 2,006 km (1,246 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 40 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Route Type: Domestic
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