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RIC → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Richmond International Airport (Richmond) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Appalachian mountain ridges during the first half of the flight and provides the iconic Chicago skyline panorama upon arrival at O'Hare.
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Downtown Richmond
Immediately after takeoff, view the James River winding through the Virginia state capital and the historic Fan District.
Allegheny Mountains
Cross the dense forest canopies and sharp ridgelines of the Appalachian range over West Virginia.
Ohio River
Spot the wide Ohio River near Huntington or Parkersburg as the terrain transitions from mountains to the Midwest plains.
Chicago Loop
During the final descent, enjoy a breathtaking view of the Willis Tower, Soldier Field, and the dense skyscrapers of downtown Chicago.
United Center
Visible just south of the airport during the final moments of the approach into O'Hare.
The approach into O'Hare often involves a 'downwind' leg where the plane flies past the city to the south before turning north and west. Sit on the left to keep the Chicago skyline in view during this maneuver. Morning flights are ideal to avoid sun glare while looking south towards the city.
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Shenandoah National Park
Look north to see the rolling peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the famous Skyline Drive.
Midwestern Patchwork
Detailed views of the perfectly gridded farmlands and wind farms across central Ohio and Indiana.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
As you approach Chicago, see the vast blue expanse of Lake Michigan and the sandy beaches of the Indiana Dunes.
Northwestern University
If the flight patterns route over the lake, you will see the lakeside campus in Evanston just before landing.
The right side is excellent for viewing the expansive waters of Lake Michigan. On clear days, you can see the curve of the lake all the way toward Michigan. This side is also better if you prefer to avoid the direct afternoon sun when flying westward.
Book Hotels in ChicagoDistance: 1,032 km (641 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min
Departure: RIC (37.50519943237305, -77.3197021484375)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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