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YYC → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Calgary International Airport (Calgary) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area and is generally favored for iconic aerial perspectives of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan during the approach into O'Hare.
Calgary Skyline
Clear views of the Calgary Tower and the Bow River immediately after takeoff from YYC.
Missouri River
The winding path of the Missouri River as it snakes through the North Dakota plains.
Minneapolis-St. Paul
Direct views of the Twin Cities' skyscrapers and the many surrounding glacial lakes in Minnesota.
Wisconsin Dells
The unique sandstone formations and dense forestation along the Wisconsin River.
Chicago Skyline
On eastern approaches, the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan shoreline are prominently visible.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is optimal for photography of the Chicago lakefront if the aircraft executes a 'downwind' leg over Lake Michigan before turning west to land.
Distant Rockies
Faint silhouettes of the Canadian Rockies are visible to the west during the initial climb.
North Dakota Badlands
The rugged, eroded terrain of Theodore Roosevelt National Park near the Montana border.
Great Plains Patchwork
Intricate geometric patterns of center-pivot irrigation circles across the agricultural heartland.
Madison, Wisconsin
The Wisconsin State Capitol situated on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.
ORD Complex
A sprawling view of O'Hare's massive runway network and terminal layout during final descent.
Choose the right side for sunset flights to witness the 'Golden Hour' over the Great Plains. This side also provides a great view of the airport infrastructure itself if landing from the west.
Distance: 2,224 km (1,382 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 58 min
Departure: YYC (51.113899231000005, -114.019996643)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: International
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