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ORD β TUL
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Tulsa International Airport (Tulsa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Chicago skyline and the Lake Michigan shoreline immediately after takeoff, followed by a better angle for spotting the St. Louis area and the rolling Ozark hills.
Chicago Loop
Unmatched views of the Willis Tower, the urban grid, and the dense skyscrapers of downtown Chicago during the initial climb.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
The stark contrast between the deep blue lake and the white concrete of the cityβs North Side beaches.
St. Louis Gateway Arch
On clear days, the silver curve of the Arch can often be spotted on the horizon as the flight passes over the Missouri border.
Mark Twain National Forest
Dense, dark green forest canopies that mark the transition into the more rugged southern Missouri landscape.
Ozark Foothills
The beginning of the Ozark Plateau, featuring undulating hills and ridges that break the monotony of the plains.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you while viewing the Chicago skyline. During departure from O'Hare, the plane often banks, providing a steep, panoramic view of the 'L' tracks and city parks. Keep your camera ready in the first 10 minutes and the final 20 minutes for the most variety in terrain.
Illinois River
Watch the silver ribbon of the Illinois River wind through the central part of the state.
Agricultural Heartland
A perfect geometric patchwork of green and gold fields, showcasing the scale of American Midwest farming.
Oologah Lake
A massive reservoir in Oklahoma that serves as a primary landmark during the final descent into Tulsa.
Peoria Urban Area
Aerial views of the industrial and residential layouts of central Illinois' major urban center.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to watch the sunset over the vast horizon of the Great Plains. During the descent into Tulsa, this side often provides a better view of the Verdigris River valley. It is generally a quieter visual experience, focusing on the rhythmic beauty of rural landscapes.
Distance: 941 km (585 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: TUL (36.19839859008789, -95.88809967041016)
Route Type: Domestic
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