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ORD destination photo
SNA destination photo

ORDSNA

Our Recommendation
8.8

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

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.

Top Activities in Santa Ana
Route Information

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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