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ORD → YOW
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more dramatic transition from the vastness of Lake Michigan to the rugged, island-strewn beauty of Georgian Bay and the Canadian Shield.
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Lake Michigan Cross
Aerial perspective of the deep blue expanse and the coastal dunes of Northern Michigan during the initial climb.
Georgian Bay Islands
Spectacular views of the Thirty Thousand Islands, featuring granite shores and turquoise waters along the Ontario coast.
La Cloche Mountains
Glimpses of the ancient white quartzite ridges that stand out against the surrounding dark green forests.
Algonquin Highlands
Dense forest canopy of the Canadian Shield interspersed with thousands of small, glittering glacial lakes.
For the best experience, book an afternoon flight to see the sun illuminate the Georgian Bay shoreline. During autumn, the left side provides the best view of the vibrant foliage changes across the Ontario wilderness. Look for the distinct change in topography as you cross from the flat Midwest into the rugged Shield territory.
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Chicago Skyline
Stunning views of the Willis Tower and the lakefront skyscrapers if the flight path departs eastward from O'Hare.
South Lake Huron
Expansive views of the lower Great Lakes shipping lanes where large freighters are often visible.
Ontario Heartland
A patchwork quilt of agricultural fields and rural townships between the Great Lakes and the Ottawa Valley.
Ottawa River Valley
The winding river border between Ontario and Quebec becomes visible during the final descent into YOW.
Select the right side for early morning flights to watch the sun rise over the Great Lakes. If the winds require an approach from the east at YOW, the right side will provide a better view of downtown Ottawa and the Parliament Buildings just before touchdown. Keep a lookout for the bright lights of the Greater Toronto Area in the distance on clear nights.
Book Hotels in OttawaDistance: 1,051 km (653 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: YOW (45.3224983215332, -75.66919708251953)
Route Type: International
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