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ORD → SPI
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (Springfield)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the iconic Chicago skyline and the Navy Pier upon departure, followed by a direct view of the Illinois State Capitol when approaching Springfield.
Search flights from ORD to SPI
Chicago Skyline
Unmatched views of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers during the initial climb out of O'Hare.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
The deep blue expanse of the lake contrasting with the urban grid of Chicago's Gold Coast.
Central Illinois Farmland
A sprawling patchwork quilt of corn and soybean fields that define the Midwest's agricultural heart.
Bloomington-Normal
A clear overhead view of the twin cities and the Illinois State University campus mid-flight.
Illinois State Capitol
The silver-domed capitol building is often visible on the final approach into Springfield.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. Keep your camera ready within the first 5 minutes for the Chicago skyline; depending on the wind, the plane may bank right, offering a full panoramic view of the Loop.
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O'Hare Terminals
A bird's-eye view of one of the world's busiest airport infrastructures during taxi and takeoff.
Des Plaines River
A winding waterway that snakes through the western suburbs and forest preserves.
Chicagoland Speedway
The massive oval track near Joliet is frequently visible to the west during the initial cruise phase.
Illinois River Valley
Glimpses of the river valley to the far west, especially vibrant during the autumn harvest season.
Sangamon River
The natural, un-channeled curves of the Sangamon River as the flight descends into the capital city.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Illinois plains. It also provides a better view of the massive wind farms located between Pontiac and Bloomington, which are particularly striking when the turbines are illuminated at night.
Book Hotels in SpringfieldDistance: 280 km (174 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 28 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: SPI (39.84410095, -89.67790222)
Route Type: Domestic
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