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TPA → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Tampa International Airport (Tampa) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior for this route because it offers a higher chance of seeing the Chicago skyline and the Navy Pier during the approach into O'Hare, especially when landing from the south or east.
Search flights from TPA to ORD
Downtown Tampa
A clear view of the Tampa city skyline, Ybor City, and the busy port area if departing on a northerly runway.
Great Smoky Mountains
In the distance to the east, the hazy blue ridges of the Appalachian range are often visible while cruising over Georgia.
Lake Michigan
During the final descent into ORD, the plane often maneuvers over the deep blue waters of Lake Michigan.
Chicago Skyline
The 'holy grail' of this route: an incredible view of the Willis Tower and the lakefront skyscrapers as you line up for landing.
Sit on the right for the iconic Chicago skyline view. Try to book a seat in front of the wing (Rows 5-12) to ensure your view of the city isn't blocked by the engine or wing during the banking turns into O'Hare.
Book Hotels in ChicagoTampa Bay
Excellent views of the St. Petersburg shoreline and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge immediately after takeoff from TPA.
Tennessee River
Look for the winding blue curves of the Tennessee River as you cross into the border regions of Alabama and Tennessee.
Illinois Heartland
Vast, geometric patterns of corn and soybean fields that define the American Midwest landscape during the descent.
Sunset Horizon
On late afternoon or evening flights, this side provides a front-row seat to the sunset over the western plains.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It is also the best side for seeing the Gulf Coast beaches if the flight departs toward the west over the water before turning north.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,631 km (1,013 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 10 min
Departure: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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