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TUS → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Tucson International Airport (Tucson) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior arrival experience, frequently providing iconic views of the Chicago skyline and the Lake Michigan shoreline during the approach into O'Hare.
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Saguaro National Park
Views of the Rincon Mountain District and dense cactus forests shortly after departing TUS.
White Sands
On southern-leaning routes, the bright white gypsum dunes of New Mexico may be visible in the distance.
Kansas City Sprawl
Often passes close enough to see the Missouri River winding through the heart of Kansas City.
Chicago Skyline
Unmatched views of the Willis Tower, Hancock Building, and the downtown Loop during the O'Hare approach.
Lake Michigan
The vast, sea-like expanse of the lake and the Navy Pier are visible if the plane banks over the water.
The right side is the 'money side' for arrival. For the best chance at the skyline, hope for a landing from the east (Runway 27 or 28), which often involves a flyover of the lake. Afternoon flights will have the best lighting on the Chicago buildings, making the skyline glow against the lake.
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Santa Catalina Mountains
Dramatic views of Mount Lemmon and the rugged peaks immediately north of Tucson during takeoff.
Painted Desert
Distant vistas of the colorful New Mexico and Arizona desert landscapes as you head northeast.
Great Plains Grids
The geometric precision of Kansas farmland with center-pivot irrigation circles creating a massive green mosaic.
Mississippi River
A clear view of the massive river crossing near the Missouri and Illinois border.
Northern Suburbs
Dense urban planning and the intricate road networks of Chicago's northern collar counties.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is excellent for observing the stark transition from the desert Southwest to the lush agricultural fields of the Midwest. On descent, look for the 'Baha'i House of Worship' if the flight path tracks north of the city.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 2,309 km (1,435 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 5 min
Departure: TUS (32.116100311279304, -110.94100189208984)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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