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ORD → TUS
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Tucson International Airport (Tucson)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the dramatic transition from the Great Plains into the high desert, including distant Rocky Mountain peaks and the iconic Santa Catalina Mountains during the descent into Tucson.
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O'Hare Terminals
A bird's-eye view of the complex runway and terminal layout of one of the world's busiest aviation hubs.
Great Plains Grids
The mesmerizing geometric patterns of center-pivot irrigation circles across the Kansas and Oklahoma panhandles.
Sandia Mountains
The dramatic western face of the Sandias as the flight passes over or near Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Sonoran Desert
The landscape transforms into the iconic basin and range topography characterized by saguaro cacti and rocky outcrops.
Santa Catalina Mountains
The massive 'Sky Island' range that forms the northern backdrop of Tucson, featuring Mount Lemmon.
The right side is unbeatable for the approach into Tucson, as planes typically fly south of the Catalina Mountains before turning into the airport. On afternoon flights, use a window shade to manage the intense western sun, but open it periodically as you cross the Continental Divide for high-contrast desert views.
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Chicago Skyline
Spectacular views of the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan shortly after takeoff, depending on runway departure patterns.
Mississippi River
Crossing the massive drainage basin of North America near the Missouri-Illinois border.
The Ozarks
Rolling hills and dense forest cover stretching across southern Missouri and northern Arkansas.
White Sands
In the distance to the south, the rare gypsum dunefields of New Mexico shimmer white against the desert floor.
Santa Rita Mountains
Stunning views of Mount Wrightson and the Madera Canyon area just before touchdown.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Chicago skyline if departing east. During winter, look for the stark contrast between the white snow of the Midwest and the red earth of the Southwest. For late afternoon flights, this side avoids the direct glare of the sun, making photography easier.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,309 km (1,435 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 5 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: TUS (32.116100311279304, -110.94100189208984)
Route Type: Domestic
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