Loading map...
ORD → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unbeatable combination of the Chicago skyline upon departure and the dramatic descent over the Canadian Rockies and the fjords of Howe Sound.
Chicago Skyline
Get a bird's-eye view of the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan if taking off toward the east or north.
Wisconsin Dells
Spot the unique sandstone formations and winding rivers of central Wisconsin.
Canadian Rockies
An endless expanse of jagged, snow-capped peaks spanning the horizon for nearly an hour.
Okanagan Valley
Look for the long, narrow glacial lakes and vineyard-covered hills of interior British Columbia.
Howe Sound
A breathtaking fjord landscape with emerald islands and towering mountains just north of Vancouver.
Sit on the right for the most dramatic mountain scenery. For the best view of the Chicago skyline, hope for a western departure. On arrival, if the plane circles north for a landing on Runway 08L, you will have a perfect view of downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park. Seasonal note: in winter, the sunset over the Pacific can be spectacular from this side.
Mississippi River
Witness the massive waterway carving through the heart of the American Midwest early in the flight.
Badlands
View the rugged and colorful erosion patterns of North Dakota and eastern Montana.
Glacier National Park
The sharp, glaciated peaks of the American Rockies are visible near the border crossing.
Mount Baker
A massive, snow-covered stratovolcano that dominates the horizon during the final descent.
Fraser Valley
The lush agricultural landscape of British Columbia leading into the Vancouver suburbs.
The left side is the better choice for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing to capture the isolated majesty of Mount Baker. If the flight path takes a southerly approach, you may also see the Olympic Mountains in the distance.
Distance: 2,831 km (1,759 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 46 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.