Loading map...
RNO → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Reno Tahoe International Airport (Reno) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side (north) typically offers superior views of the starkly beautiful Pyramid Lake early in the flight and provides the most expansive perspective of the Great Salt Lake's vibrant mineral colors.
Search flights from RNO to ORD
Pyramid Lake
A striking desert lake located just north of the flight path shortly after takeoff from Reno.
Great Salt Lake
Vast views of the northern portions of the lake, often showing distinct color variations due to salinity.
Uinta Mountains
The highest east-west trending range in the United States, visible as you cross into Utah.
Missouri River
The winding border between Nebraska and Iowa, marking the transition into the lush Midwest.
Mississippi River
A major geographic milestone crossing from Iowa into Illinois, often busy with barge traffic.
For the best experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be on the right (south) side of the plane, perfectly illuminating the landmarks to the north without glare or direct sunlight in your eyes.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United States
Lake Tahoe
If the flight path banks south after departure, you get a breathtaking view of the alpine lake's deep blue waters to the southwest.
Wasatch Range
Jagged peaks rising sharply above Salt Lake City, offering dramatic terrain views during the Utah crossing.
Flaming Gorge
A massive reservoir on the Green River known for its red rock canyons and bright blue water visible near the Wyoming border.
Platte River Valley
The historic path of the Oregon Trail, characterized by braided river channels across the Nebraska plains.
Chicago Skyline
On the final approach into O'Hare from the west, the right side often provides a glimpse of the Willis Tower and the downtown cluster.
The right side is excellent for catching the sunset on late afternoon flights into Chicago. Keep your camera ready during the first 10 minutes of flight for a potential view of the Sierra Nevada, and again during the descent for the Chicago suburbs' expansive grid layout.
Book Hotels in ChicagoDistance: 2,683 km (1,667 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 35 min
Departure: RNO (39.49909973144531, -119.76799774169922)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.