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ORD → TXL
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Berlin-Tegel Airport (Berlin)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for this transatlantic route, primarily because it faces north, offering the best chance to witness the Northern Lights and providing a front-row seat to the dramatic, icy coastline of Greenland.
Lake Michigan and Chicago Skyline
Immediately after takeoff, enjoy a sweeping view of the Chicago lakefront and the deep blue expanse of Lake Michigan as the plane climbs northeast.
Quebec and Labrador Wilderness
Aerial views of the vast, untouched boreal forests and crystalline lake systems of Eastern Canada.
Greenland Ice Cap
On the great circle route, the left side faces the jagged fjords and massive glaciers of southern Greenland, often visible during summer months or moonlight.
Aurora Borealis
Since this is a night flight heading north, the left side provides the necessary northward view to spot the Northern Lights during the Atlantic crossing.
North Sea Transit
Approaching Europe, you will see the busy shipping lanes and massive offshore wind farms of the North Sea near the German coast.
Keep your window shade open during the middle of the flight (approximately 3-5 hours after departure) to check for the Aurora Borealis. Use a blanket to cover your head and the window to block cabin light for the best viewing. If traveling in summer, the 'midnight sun' effect near Greenland offers incredible high-altitude lighting for photography.
Montreal and St. Lawrence River
A view of the sprawling Montreal metro area and the wide, industrial artery of the St. Lawrence River.
Newfoundland Coastline
The rugged, rocky eastern tip of North America before the plane heads out over the open Atlantic Ocean.
Atlantic Sunrise
As a red-eye flight, the right side gets the full glory of the sunrise over the horizon as you approach the European continent.
Berlin City View
On the standard approach into the Berlin area from the west, the right side typically offers views of the Fernsehturm (TV Tower) and the dense city center.
The right side is ideal for passengers who enjoy watching the sunrise, which occurs quickly on this eastbound route. For the arrival into Berlin, ensure your camera is ready about 15 minutes before landing; the right side often captures the urban sprawl and iconic landmarks if the wind dictates a landing from the west.
Distance: 7,081 km (4,400 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 20 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: TXL (52.5597, 13.2877)
Route Type: International
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