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ORD → SNA
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport (Santa Ana)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a masterclass in American geography, featuring the jagged peaks of the Rockies, the red rock formations of Utah's national parks, and a potential glimpse of the Las Vegas lights before the final descent into Southern California.
Front Range Rockies
The dramatic rise of the Rocky Mountains as the flight leaves the Great Plains behind.
Arches & Canyonlands
Stunning red rock formations and natural arches visible across the Utah landscape.
Lake Powell
The deep blue waters of the reservoir contrasted against vibrant orange sandstone.
Las Vegas Strip
The dense cluster of mega-resorts and neon lights visible if the flight path tracks north of the city.
San Gabriel Mountains
The high peaks of the Angeles National Forest appearing just before the descent into Santa Ana.
SNA Descent
The tight, steep approach over the dense suburban landscape of Orange County.
Choose the right side for unparalleled views of the Colorado Rockies and Utah's red rock country. Afternoon flights provide excellent 'golden hour' lighting over the desert. Note that SNA arrivals are notoriously steep, so keep your camera ready for the fast-approaching ground.
Chicago Skyline
Bird's-eye view of Willis Tower and the Lake Michigan shoreline immediately after takeoff.
Mississippi River
The massive waterway dividing the Midwest from the Great Plains.
Grand Canyon
Dramatic views of the South Rim and the sheer scale of the Colorado River gorge.
Hoover Dam
A glimpse of the engineering marvel and the vivid blue waters of Lake Mead.
San Bernardino Mountains
Rugged, often snow-capped peaks that mark the entry into the Los Angeles basin.
Orange County Coast
Aerial views of Newport Beach and the Pacific horizon during the final approach.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Grand Canyon. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the canyon depths without harsh shadows. On the final approach into SNA, you may see the Pacific Ocean as the plane banks for its descent.
Distance: 2,772 km (1,722 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 42 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: SNA (33.67570114, -117.8679962)
Route Type: Domestic
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