About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Austin to Chicago. Left side wins both ends of the flight — Austin's Hill Country and downtown on departure, and Chicago's lakefront skyline on approach. During cruise at 35,000 feet heading northeast over Missouri and Illinois, the left side also faces generally east where urban areas like St. Louis may be visible in the distance on clear days.
What can I see during takeoff from Austin Bergstrom International in Austin?
During takeoff from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS), sit on the Left side for the best views. AUS typically departs northeast on runway 17L/35R or 18L/36R. On a northbound departure climbing out heading northeast, the left (west) side gives you downtown Austin's skyline along the Colorado River, plus Lake Travis and the Highland Lakes chain stretching northwest into the Hill Country. The right side faces east toward flat farmland with little of interest. Notable sights include: Downtown Austin skyline, Colorado River/Lady Bird Lake, Lake Travis, Texas Hill Country terrain.
What can I see when landing at Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
When landing at Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Left side for the best views. O'Hare predominantly uses runways oriented east-west and northwest-southeast. On a typical approach from the south or southwest, the left side faces east toward downtown Chicago, Lake Michigan's shoreline, and the lakefront. The right side faces west over flat suburban sprawl with nothing distinctive. Notable sights include: Downtown Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago River, suburban Cook County grid.
How long is the flight from Austin to Chicago?
The flight from Austin Bergstrom International (AUS) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.
What does the Austin to Chicago flight path pass over?
The route tracks northeast over the Texas Hill Country, then across the Red River into Oklahoma, over the Ozark Plateau of southern Missouri, across the Missouri River near Kansas City or St. Louis depending on routing, then into the flat Illinois plains before descending into Chicago. The Mississippi River is a notable crossing point visible from both sides, and the Missouri River confluence near St. Louis may be visible on clear days.