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ORD → STT
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Cyril E. King Airport (St. Thomas)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a spectacular view of the Chicago skyline upon departure and provides the most iconic views of the Charlotte Amalie harbor and the Virgin Islands during the approach into St. Thomas.
Chicago Skyline
Dramatic views of the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan shoreline immediately after takeoff from O'Hare.
Appalachian Ridges
Aerial perspective of the folded mountain ridges across Virginia and North Carolina.
Outer Banks
The thin ribbon of the North Carolina barrier islands visible as the flight transitions over the Atlantic.
Turks and Caicos
Vibrant turquoise waters and coral reefs surrounding the Caicos Bank during the mid-Caribbean leg.
Charlotte Amalie
Unmatched views of the St. Thomas capital, cruise ship docks, and red-roofed houses during final descent.
For morning departures, the left side will be shaded, making it easier to photograph the Chicago skyline. During the approach into STT, keep your camera ready about 10 minutes before landing for the best shots of the Virgin Islands archipelago. Most ORD-STT flights are daytime, but a window seat is essential as the descent over the Caribbean cays is the highlight of the trip.
Chicago Suburbs
Sprawling views of the western Chicago metropolitan area and the Fox River valley.
Bahamian Cays
Views of the Berry Islands and the deep blue 'Tongue of the Ocean' trench in the Bahamas.
Puerto Rico
The lush green mountains of El Yunque and the northern coastline of Puerto Rico visible to the south.
Water Island
A close-up view of the smaller Water Island and Honeymoon Beach just before touchdown at Cyril E. King.
The right side is ideal for travelers who want to see the Bahamian island chains from a distance. However, be aware that on this southeasterly route, the right side will face the direct sun for most of the flight, which can lead to glare and higher cabin temperatures. It is better for spotting the mountains of Puerto Rico as you pass by to the north.
Distance: 3,408 km (2,118 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 1 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: STT (18.337299346923828, -64.97339630126953)
Route Type: International
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