About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bandaranaike International (CMB) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Colombo to Chicago. While the landing approach over Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline is visually striking, the takeoff from Colombo offers more sustained scenic interest. Right-side seats capture the Indian Ocean departure, and for the westbound transatlantic/transpacific routing, right-side seats also provide better views of the Middle East region (Persian Gulf, Arabian Peninsula) and parts of the Mediterranean during the long cruise segment.
What can I see during takeoff from Bandaranaike International in Colombo?
During takeoff from Bandaranaike International (CMB), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Indian Ocean coastline and the western shores of Sri Lanka during the initial climb-out from Colombo. The aircraft departs westbound over water, and right-side windows capture the Colombo harbor area, coastal lagoons, and the transition from land to open ocean. Notable sights include: Colombo harbor and port facilities, Negombo Lagoon to the north, Indian Ocean coastline, Kelani River delta.
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. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Chicago. The aircraft approaches from the east over Lake Michigan, and left-side windows capture the dramatic transition from open water to the Chicago skyline, the downtown core, and the surrounding urban landscape. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, Grant Park, Lake Shore Drive corridor.
How long is the flight from Colombo to Chicago?
The flight from Bandaranaike International (CMB) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes 16h 20m.
What does the Colombo to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Arabian Sea, passes over or near the Arabian Peninsula and Persian Gulf region, continues over the Middle East (Iraq, Syria), the Mediterranean Sea, and the European continent before heading northwest across the Atlantic toward North America. Notable visible features include the Strait of Hormuz, the Zagros Mountains of Iran, the Mediterranean coastlines of southern Europe, and the Atlantic Ocean.