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SRQ → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (Sarasota) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route as it offers the best views of the Florida Gulf Coast during departure and typically provides a front-row seat to the iconic Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline during the standard approach into O'Hare.
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Gulf Coast Beaches
Stunning aerial views of Siesta Key, Lido Key, and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico immediately after takeoff.
Sunshine Skyway
The distinctive cable-stayed bridge spanning Tampa Bay is often visible as the plane climbs north.
Tennessee River
Watch the winding curves of the Tennessee River as you cross the border between Alabama and Tennessee.
Chicago Skyline
On the standard 'Downwind' approach, you get a breathtaking view of the Willis Tower, Hancock Building, and Navy Pier.
Lake Michigan Shoreline
Expansive views of the deep blue lake meeting the dense urban grid of Chicago's North Side.
For the best experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. During evening flights, this side catches the sunset over the horizon. When approaching ORD from the east (over the lake), the Left side is essential for seeing the city skyline; however, keep in mind that air traffic control may vary the arrival path based on wind.
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Myakka River State Park
View the vast wetlands and dry prairies of one of Florida's oldest and largest parks shortly after departure.
Atlanta Suburbs
As you head north, the sprawling residential canopy of the greater Atlanta area often appears in the distance.
Appalachian Foothills
The rolling green terrain of the Cumberland Plateau in Kentucky provides a textured landscape during the mid-flight cruise.
Midwestern Farmland
The geometric 'quilt' of Indiana and Illinois agriculture creates a distinct pattern of greens and yellows.
ORD Airport Sprawl
A great view of the massive runway complex and terminal architecture of O'Hare just before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for early morning flights to see the sunrise over the Atlantic-side horizon. It offers a more inland perspective of the rural Midwest. If the flight lands toward the east, you might catch a glimpse of the lake, but generally, this side is less scenic for the final arrival phase compared to the left.
Book Hotels in ChicagoDistance: 1,693 km (1,052 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 15 min
Departure: SRQ (27.39539909362793, -82.55439758300781)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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