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ORD → SXM
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Princess Juliana International Airport (Philipsburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this route due to the breathtaking views of the Bahamas' turquoise waters and the iconic final approach over the lagoons and beaches of St. Martin.
Ohio River Valley
Meandering river paths and the fertile agricultural heartland of the American Midwest.
The Bahamas
Spectacular views of the Great Bahama Bank, featuring vibrant turquoise water and white sand cays.
Turks and Caicos
Deep blue ocean drop-offs and bright coral reefs surrounding these tropical islands.
Maho Beach
The world-famous beach at the end of the runway, visible as the aircraft makes its low-altitude approach.
Simpson Bay
A bird's eye view of the yacht-filled lagoon and the lush green hills of St. Martin just seconds before landing.
Sit on the right for the most iconic Caribbean views. About 2.5 to 3 hours into the flight, keep your camera ready for the stunning color gradients of the Bahamian islands. During the descent into SXM, this side provides the best view of the island's coastal geography and the famous landing path over the beach.
Chicago Skyline
Dramatic views of the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan shoreline immediately after takeoff from O'Hare.
Appalachian Ridges
The rolling green peaks and valleys of the eastern mountain range stretching through Virginia.
Atlantic Coastline
The transition from the mainland to the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean near the Carolinas.
Anguilla
The flat, coral-fringed island of Anguilla visible just north of the plane during the final descent into SXM.
For morning flights, the left side is the 'shady side,' which reduces glare and makes it much easier to photograph the landscape. This side is ideal for spotting the initial climb over the Great Lakes and the distant eastern seaboard.
Distance: 3,549 km (2,205 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 11 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: SXM (18.0410003662, -63.1088981628)
Route Type: International
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