While both sides score equally low due to the short 40-minute flight over flat Midwestern terrain with minimal dramatic geography, the right side edges ahead during landing with views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's urban density. The takeoff is comparable on both sides, but the landing approach to ORD provides more visual interest than the departure from CMI.
Flown CMI to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Savoy to Chicago is 135 miles (218 km), a flight of about 40 minutes.
I-74 corridor, Iroquois River valley, Des Plaines River, transition from rural central Illinois to Chicago metropolitan sprawl, flat glaciated terrain throughout with no elevation changes exceeding 200 feet
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from CMI
LEFTLeft side offers slightly better views of Champaign-Urbana urban area and surrounding agricultural landscape during initial climb. Right side faces open farmland with minimal distinguishing features.
Landing at ORD
RIGHTRight side provides views of Chicago's urban sprawl and Lake Michigan shoreline during approach to ORD. Left side faces industrial areas and open terrain with less visual interest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Savoy to Chicago. While both sides score equally low due to the short 40-minute flight over flat Midwestern terrain with minimal dramatic geography, the right side edges ahead during landing with views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's urban density. The takeoff is comparable on both sides, but the landing approach to ORD provides more visual interest than the departure from CMI.
What can I see during takeoff from University of Illinois Willard Airport in Savoy?
During takeoff from University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers slightly better views of Champaign-Urbana urban area and surrounding agricultural landscape during initial climb. Right side faces open farmland with minimal distinguishing features. Notable sights include: Champaign-Urbana city grid, University of Illinois campus, I-74 corridor, flat central Illinois prairie.
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. Right side provides views of Chicago's urban sprawl and Lake Michigan shoreline during approach to ORD. Left side faces industrial areas and open terrain with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago downtown skyline, O'Hare International Airport complex, Des Plaines River valley.
How long is the flight from Savoy to Chicago?
The flight from University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 40 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 135 miles (218 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Savoy to Chicago flight path pass over?
I-74 corridor, Iroquois River valley, Des Plaines River, transition from rural central Illinois to Chicago metropolitan sprawl, flat glaciated terrain throughout with no elevation changes exceeding 200 feet