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SFB → RFD
Which side of the plane to sit from Orlando Sanford International Airport (Sanford) to Chicago Rockford International Airport (Rockford)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the edge of the Appalachian range and a spectacular distant view of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan during the final descent phase into Rockford.
Search flights from SFB to RFD
Appalachian Foothills
The western ridges of the Great Smoky Mountains and the rolling terrain of East Tennessee.
Indianapolis Speedway
The iconic racing oval and the urban sprawl of Indianapolis are often visible from cruising altitude.
Chicago Skyline
During the descent into RFD, the distant silhouettes of the Willis Tower and John Hancock Center appear against Lake Michigan.
The right side is ideal for morning flights as the sun will be behind the aircraft or on the opposite side. Watch closely about 20 minutes before landing; even though RFD is west of Chicago, the city's massive skyline is often visible on the horizon if the air is clear.
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St. Johns River
Visible immediately after departure from SFB, featuring the winding wetlands and Lake Jessup.
Nashville Basin
A clear view of the Cumberland River and the dense urban center of Music City, Tennessee.
Illinois Heartland
Vast, geometric patterns of agricultural fields that turn golden-brown in late summer and autumn.
Choose the left side for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Mississippi River Valley in the distance. Be aware that during mid-afternoon flights, the sun will be directly hitting this side, which may cause glare and heat.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,651 km (1,026 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min
Departure: SFB (28.7775993347168, -81.23750305175781)
Arrival: RFD (42.19540023803711, -89.09719848632812)
Route Type: Domestic
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