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SCE → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from University Park Airport (State College Pennsylvania) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route as it offers the iconic view of the Chicago skyline during the descent into O'Hare and a prime view of Beaver Stadium immediately after takeoff from State College.
Search flights from SCE to ORD
Beaver Stadium
Direct aerial view of the massive Penn State football stadium and campus shortly after departure.
Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians
Dramatic views of the unique corrugated mountain folds of Central Pennsylvania.
Gary Industrial Waterfront
The sprawling steel mills and heavy industry along the southernmost tip of Lake Michigan.
The Chicago Loop
A stunning panoramic view of Willis Tower and the downtown skyscrapers during the final approach pattern.
Chicago Harbors
Views of Navy Pier and the various marinas lining the city's lakefront.
Sit on the left for the best chance of seeing the Chicago skyline. For SCE departures, flights usually head west immediately, making the campus visible within the first 2 minutes. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the skyline without glare from the sun.
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Allegheny National Forest
Vast stretches of dense green forest canopy across the Allegheny Plateau.
Lake Erie Horizon
On clear days, the distant shoreline of Lake Erie is visible to the north over Ohio.
Midwestern Patchwork
The transition from mountains to the perfectly square agricultural grids of Ohio and Indiana.
Indiana Dunes
The distinct sandy coastline where the Indiana Dunes National Park meets Lake Michigan.
Lake Michigan Crossing
Expansive views of the deep blue water as the plane turns for its final approach into ORD.
Choose the right side if you prefer natural landscapes and water views. This side provides an excellent look at the Indiana shoreline and the transition of the Great Lakes. During sunset flights, this side will experience direct sun, which may make photography difficult.
Book Hotels in ChicagoDistance: 847 km (526 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: SCE (40.8493003845, -77.84870147710002)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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