Albany to Chicago is 721 miles (1,161 km), a flight of about 1 hour 45 minutes.
Neither side offers dramatic scenery on this short flat-terrain route, but the left side's departure view of the Helderberg Escarpment and Hudson Valley gives it a slight edge over the otherwise flat, featureless Midwest cruise and approach.
Flight Path
Flat farmland of upstate New York transitioning to the Great Lakes plain, with occasional views of the Mohawk Valley and Lake Erie's eastern basin depending on routing.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ALB
LEFTDeparting ALB westbound (Runway 28) or climbing out, the left side offers views of the Helderberg Escarpment and the Hudson Valley terrain west of Albany, giving some topographic relief compared to the flatter east side. The Catskills' northern foothills are occasionally visible in the distance.
Landing at ORD
RIGHTArriving into ORD from the east, the right side of the aircraft typically faces north during the final approach turns, offering glimpses of Lake Michigan's shoreline and Chicago's skyline including the Willis Tower and Lake Point Tower before the turn onto final for the east-west runways.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Albany International (ALB) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Albany to Chicago. Neither side offers dramatic scenery on this short flat-terrain route, but the left side's departure view of the Helderberg Escarpment and Hudson Valley gives it a slight edge over the otherwise flat, featureless Midwest cruise and approach.
What can I see during takeoff from Albany International in Albany?
During takeoff from Albany International (ALB), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing ALB westbound (Runway 28) or climbing out, the left side offers views of the Helderberg Escarpment and the Hudson Valley terrain west of Albany, giving some topographic relief compared to the flatter east side. The Catskills' northern foothills are occasionally visible in the distance. Notable sights include: Helderberg Escarpment, Hudson River valley, Catskill foothills (distant).
What can I see when landing at Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
When landing at Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Arriving into ORD from the east, the right side of the aircraft typically faces north during the final approach turns, offering glimpses of Lake Michigan's shoreline and Chicago's skyline including the Willis Tower and Lake Point Tower before the turn onto final for the east-west runways. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago skyline (Willis Tower, Loop skyscrapers), Navy Pier.
How long is the flight from Albany to Chicago?
The flight from Albany International (ALB) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 721 miles (1,161 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Albany to Chicago flight path pass over?
Flat farmland of upstate New York transitioning to the Great Lakes plain, with occasional views of the Mohawk Valley and Lake Erie's eastern basin depending on routing.