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RSW destination photo
ORD destination photo

RSWORD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft typically offers superior views, especially during the descent into Chicago. As you approach ORD from the south, this side frequently provides a spectacular panorama of the Lake Michigan shoreline and the world-famous Chicago skyline, particularly when the flight path routes over the lake for a western approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Lake Okeechobee

The 'Big O' is often visible to the southeast shortly after departure, looking like a vast inland sea amidst the Everglades.

⛰️

Appalachian Foothills

As you head north through Tennessee and Kentucky, watch for the rolling green ridges that mark the western edge of the mountains.

🌉

Ohio River Crossing

A clear view of the winding Ohio River near Louisville, marking the geographic border between the South and the Midwest.

🚢

Lake Michigan Shoreline

The southern tip of the lake near Gary and the Indiana Dunes provides a stark contrast between industrial landscapes and natural beauty.

🏙️

Chicago Skyline

The ultimate highlight; if landing on the 27 or 28 runways, you will see the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center reflecting off the lake.

The right side is essential for the iconic 'Chicago Loop' view. To see the skyline, aim for a window seat and hope for an approach from the east. In winter, this side offers beautiful views of the ice formations on the edges of Lake Michigan. For morning flights, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses or a sunshade.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏝️

Florida Gulf Coast

Immediately after takeoff, witness the white sandy beaches of Fort Myers and the intricate waterways of the Caloosahatchee River.

🌉

Tampa Bay Area

Excellent views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and the sprawling metropolitan area of Tampa and St. Petersburg.

🎸

Nashville Skyline

Clear views of 'Music City' including the distinct Batman building (AT&T Building) as you cross into Tennessee.

🏎️

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

On clear days, the massive oval of the world's most famous race track is visible just west of the downtown area.

🏘️

Chicago Suburbs

A detailed grid-view of the sprawling northern Illinois residential areas during the final approach phase.

Choose the left side for afternoon flights to enjoy stunning sunset views over the Midwest. Keep an eye out early in the flight for the coastal transition from Florida's wetlands to the southern forests. This side is also better if the flight path takes a more westerly route over the rural farmlands of Illinois.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 1,806 km (1,122 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min

Departure: RSW (26.53619956970215, -81.75520324707031)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

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