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VIE → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Vienna International Airport (Vienna) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer excellent views, the Right Side is superior for catching the majestic Greenland ice cap and potentially Iceland, benefiting from indirect sunlight which is ideal for photography during this westbound daylight flight.
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Icelandic Highlands
On more northerly tracks, the volcanic plains and glaciers of Iceland are visible to the north.
Greenland Ice Sheet
Spectacular, high-altitude views of the massive inland ice cap and jagged mountain peaks.
Labrador Coast
The rugged, desolate beauty of the Canadian subarctic coastline and frozen inlets.
Lake Huron
Crossing the vast expanse of the Great Lakes, specifically the North Channel of Ontario.
ORD Approach
Excellent views of the northern Chicago suburbs and the complex layout of one of the world's busiest airports.
The right side faces north, providing soft, indirect light which is perfect for capturing the textures of the Greenland ice sheet without harsh reflections. Greenland is typically reached about 4.5 to 5.5 hours into the flight. If the flight path is polar, you might even see sea ice in the Davis Strait.
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Vienna & Danube
Aerial views of the Donauturm and the historic city center immediately after takeoff from VIE.
Distant Alps
Views of the northern fringe of the Alps while overflying Southern Germany.
English Channel
Clear views of the busy shipping lanes and the white cliffs of the UK coast.
Cape Farewell
The southern tip of Greenland, famous for floating icebergs and dramatic coastal fjords.
Chicago Skyline
If the aircraft approaches ORD from the east over Lake Michigan, the left side offers a stunning view of the Willis Tower.
The left side faces south, meaning you will have direct sunlight for the majority of the flight. This can cause significant glare and heat; keep your window shade partially closed during the Atlantic crossing. For the best chance of the Chicago skyline view, hope for a landing on the 27 or 28 runways.
Get eSIMs for Austria
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 7,566 km (4,701 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 54 min
Departure: VIE (48.110298156738, 16.569700241089002)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: International
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