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TUL → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Tulsa International Airport (Tulsa) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this route because it offers the most consistent views of the Tulsa skyline upon departure and the iconic Chicago skyline during the descent into O'Hare, especially when approaching from the west.
Downtown Tulsa
A clear view of the BOK Tower and the Art Deco architecture of the city center shortly after takeoff.
The Mississippi River
Look for the massive silver ribbon of water marking the border between Missouri and Illinois near Hannibal.
Illinois Heartland
Perfectly gridded farmland and agricultural patterns that define the Midwest landscape.
Chicago Skyline
On clear days, the Sears (Willis) Tower and the dense cluster of skyscrapers are visible during the descent.
Sit on the left for the best chance of seeing the Chicago skyline on a standard arrival. For morning flights, this side will be in the shade, making photography much easier without sun glare. If the plane approaches from the south, you'll have a direct line of sight to the downtown loop.
The Ozark Plateau
The northern edges of the Ozark mountains offer rolling hills and dense forests in southern Missouri.
Illinois River
Watch for the winding Illinois River and the industrial barges moving through the Peoria area.
Lake Michigan
If O'Hare is using an eastern approach, you will bank over the deep blue waters of the lake before landing.
ORD Terminal View
A great view of the massive O'Hare terminal complex and various taxiways during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for catching a glimpse of Lake Michigan if the flight path loops east over the water before turning back to land. Be aware that afternoon flights will experience significant sun glare on this side. Keep an eye out for the Mark Twain National Forest area during the middle of the flight.
Distance: 941 km (585 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: TUL (36.19839859008789, -95.88809967041016)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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