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PHL → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Philadelphia International Airport (Philadelphia) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is typically superior for this route as it offers the most consistent views of the Philadelphia skyline upon departure and the iconic Chicago skyline during the standard approach into O'Hare.
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Philadelphia Skyline
A stunning view of Center City and the Delaware River waterfront shortly after takeoff from PHL.
Appalachian Ridges
Observe the unique 'ridge and valley' formation of the Appalachian Mountains through central Pennsylvania.
Steel Valley
Aerial views of the industrial history and river valleys near the Pittsburgh region as you cross into Ohio.
Midwestern Patchwork
The landscape transforms into the precise, geometric agricultural grids of the American heartland.
The Chicago Loop
On the standard approach for runways 27 or 28, the left side provides an unparalleled view of the Willis Tower and downtown.
For the best experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. This side is particularly spectacular during evening flights, as the sun sets directly ahead or slightly to the left, casting a golden glow over the Pennsylvania mountains and reflecting off the Chicago skyscrapers.
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Susquehanna River
Cross the wide, shallow waters of the Susquehanna near Harrisburg, one of the oldest river systems in the world.
Allegheny National Forest
View the dense, dark green expanse of Pennsylvania's only National Forest to the north.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Catch glimpses of the southern coast of Lake Erie, including the city of Cleveland and its busy port.
Cleveland Waterfront
Identify the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Browns stadium on the lake's edge.
Lake Michigan Expanse
The final descent often takes you over the deep blue waters of Lake Michigan before turning back toward the airport.
The right side is ideal for travelers who enjoy Great Lakes geography. If the flight path takes a more northerly route, you will have a better view of the Lake Erie shoreline. Morning flights are better on this side to keep the sun at your back, providing clearer, high-contrast views of the landscape below.
Book Hotels in ChicagoDistance: 1,088 km (676 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min
Departure: PHL (39.87189865112305, -75.24109649658203)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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