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ZRH → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Zürich Airport (Zurich) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer incredible views of the North Atlantic and the Arctic, the right side is superior for witnessing the massive ice sheets and dramatic fjords of central Greenland and the rugged wilderness of the Canadian Arctic islands.
Jura Mountains
A close-up view of the Jura mountain range immediately after departing the Zurich area heading northwest.
Greenland Ice Sheet
Stunning vistas of the massive inland ice cap, massive glaciers, and deep blue meltwater lakes.
Baffin Island
Towering granite cliffs and some of the most remote, jagged mountain peaks on Earth in the Canadian Arctic.
James Bay
The southern extension of Hudson Bay, often showing interesting ice patterns even into early summer.
Lake Michigan Shore
The descent over the deep blue waters of Lake Michigan and the northern Illinois suburbs.
The right side is the 'explorer's side' on this route. Request a window seat ahead of the wing for the best views of Greenland's glacial carvings. If you are on a winter flight, this side also offers the best chance to spot the Aurora Borealis during any periods of darkness over the North Atlantic.
Swiss Plateau
After takeoff, enjoy sweeping views of the Swiss Midlands and the distant silhouette of the Bernese Alps to the south.
North Atlantic Coast
Aerial views of the French or British coastline, depending on the day's specific oceanic track.
Cape Farewell
Catch the southern tip of Greenland where the ice sheet meets the dark, iceberg-filled waters of the North Atlantic.
Labrador Wilderness
Vast stretches of untouched subarctic forests and complex lake systems as the flight enters Canadian airspace.
Chicago Skyline
During a standard approach to ORD from the east, the left side often provides a world-class view of the Willis Tower and the lakefront.
Sit on the left if your priority is the final approach into Chicago; if the plane circles the city, you will get an unparalleled view of the skyscrapers. This side also stays slightly cooler during the westbound flight as it faces south away from the direct overhead sun for part of the journey.
Distance: 7,131 km (4,431 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 23 min
Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: International
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