While left offers good scenery during climb-out, right provides superior views on approach with Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline—two of the most visually distinctive features on this route. The landing approach views outweigh the takeoff advantage.
Flown COU to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Columbia to Chicago is 315 miles (507 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Illinois River valley, transition from Ozark terrain to Mississippi River floodplain, scattered lakes and reservoirs in central Illinois, gradual flattening of terrain as flight progresses northeast toward Lake Michigan
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from COU
LEFTLeft side captures the Missouri River valley and the immediate terrain north of Columbia as the aircraft climbs northeast toward Chicago. You'll see the river's distinctive meanders and the rolling Ozark foothills receding below.
Landing at ORD
RIGHTRight side provides the best views during approach to O'Hare. You'll see Lake Michigan's shoreline, the Chicago skyline, and the urban sprawl of the Chicago metropolitan area as you descend from the northeast.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Columbia Rgnl (COU) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Columbia to Chicago. While left offers good scenery during climb-out, right provides superior views on approach with Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline—two of the most visually distinctive features on this route. The landing approach views outweigh the takeoff advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Columbia Rgnl in Columbia?
During takeoff from Columbia Rgnl (COU), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Missouri River valley and the immediate terrain north of Columbia as the aircraft climbs northeast toward Chicago. You'll see the river's distinctive meanders and the rolling Ozark foothills receding below. Notable sights include: Missouri River, Ozark Plateau terrain, Lake of the Ozarks (visible in distance during climb), Columbia urban grid.
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 the best views during approach to O'Hare. You'll see Lake Michigan's shoreline, the Chicago skyline, and the urban sprawl of the Chicago metropolitan area as you descend from the northeast. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline, Illinois River valley, Chicago metropolitan urban grid.
How long is the flight from Columbia to Chicago?
The flight from Columbia Rgnl (COU) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 315 miles (507 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Columbia to Chicago flight path pass over?
Illinois River valley, transition from Ozark terrain to Mississippi River floodplain, scattered lakes and reservoirs in central Illinois, gradual flattening of terrain as flight progresses northeast toward Lake Michigan