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TVC → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Cherry Capital Airport (Traverse City) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the Michigan coastline and an iconic view of the Chicago skyline during the final approach into O'Hare.
Grand Traverse Bay
Crystal clear views of the West Bay and the Old Mission Peninsula immediately after takeoff.
Manistee National Forest
A vast expanse of dense green canopy stretching along the Michigan shoreline.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Distinctive high-altitude views of the massive sand dunes and the adjacent lake.
Chicago Loop
A breathtaking view of the Willis Tower and downtown skyscrapers during the southern approach.
Navy Pier
Spot the giant ferris wheel and the lakefront parks as the plane aligns for landing.
Choose the left side for morning flights to catch the sunrise reflecting off Lake Michigan. This side is most likely to offer the classic 'skyline view' as planes often track south over the water before turning west toward the airport.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
Towering sand bluffs and the turquoise waters of the National Lakeshore shortly after departure.
Manitou Islands
The North and South Manitou Islands are clearly visible in the blue waters of Lake Michigan.
Lake Michigan
Experience the scale of the Great Lakes with views of shipping vessels crossing the horizon.
Milwaukee Skyline
On clear days, the Wisconsin coast and Milwaukee skyscrapers are visible across the water.
O'Hare Layout
Detailed views of the complex runway system and terminal architecture during final descent.
The right side is unbeatable for the first 10 minutes of flight to see the Sleeping Bear Dunes. For evening flights, this side offers spectacular sunsets over the lake. Ensure you have a window seat forward of the wing for the best photo angles of the dunes.
Distance: 360 km (224 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 36 min
Departure: TVC (44.74140167236328, -85.58219909667969)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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