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PNS → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Pensacola Regional Airport (Pensacola) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is significantly more scenic during the arrival phase, offering the best chance to view the Lake Michigan shoreline and the iconic Chicago skyline during the final approach into O'Hare.
Search flights from PNS to ORD
Emerald Coast Departure
Glimpse the stunning white sand beaches and turquoise waters of the Florida Panhandle immediately after departing PNS.
Nashville Cityscape
Look for the 'Batman Building' and the urban density of Music City as you fly over central Tennessee.
Ohio River Crossing
A major geographic marker, the wide Ohio River serves as the gateway between the South and the Midwest.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
Most ORD arrival patterns bank over the lake, providing expansive views of the deep blue water and sandy Indiana Dunes.
Chicago Skyline
The ultimate highlight; see the Willis Tower, Hancock Building, and Navy Pier as the plane aligns for a westward landing.
The right side is essential for the Chicago skyline. For sunset flights, the skyline glows against the darkening lake. Be aware that landing direction depends on wind; however, the right side consistently offers better views of the city during the base and final legs of the flight path.
Book Hotels in ChicagoMobile Bay & Delta
Soon after takeoff, view the intricate wetlands and brackish waters where the Mobile and Tensaw Rivers meet the Gulf.
Tennessee River Meanders
Witness the winding paths of the Tennessee River as the flight crosses northern Alabama and southern Tennessee.
Midwest Agriculture Grid
As you enter Illinois, observe the perfect geometric precision of the American Heartland's vast farming landscape.
Western Chicagoland
View the sprawling suburban development of the Fox River Valley as the aircraft begins its descent into the ORD corridor.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct eastern sun. It is ideal for observing the 'Great River Road' landscape and the transition from southern pine forests to northern deciduous woods and prairies.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,281 km (796 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min
Departure: PNS (30.473400115967003, -87.18659973144501)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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