While landing offers superior views of Chicago's iconic skyline and Lake Michigan, the takeoff from Decatur provides extended viewing of the Illinois River valley and agricultural landscape. Right-side seats capture both the scenic departure corridor and good sightlines during the approach phase.
Flown DEC to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Decatur to Chicago is 156 miles (252 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.
Illinois farmland and prairie landscape, Sangamon River valley, transition from central Illinois agricultural region to suburban Chicago sprawl, Des Plaines River valley approaching O'Hare
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DEC
RIGHTClimbing northbound from Decatur, the right side offers views of the Illinois River valley and farmland patterns stretching toward central Illinois. The left side faces away from notable terrain during initial climb.
Landing at ORD
LEFTOn final approach to O'Hare from the south, the left side provides views of Chicago's downtown skyline, Lake Michigan shoreline, and the city's grid pattern. The right side faces industrial areas and inland terrain with less visual interest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Decatur Airport (DEC) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Decatur to Chicago. While landing offers superior views of Chicago's iconic skyline and Lake Michigan, the takeoff from Decatur provides extended viewing of the Illinois River valley and agricultural landscape. Right-side seats capture both the scenic departure corridor and good sightlines during the approach phase.
What can I see during takeoff from Decatur Airport in Decatur?
During takeoff from Decatur Airport (DEC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Climbing northbound from Decatur, the right side offers views of the Illinois River valley and farmland patterns stretching toward central Illinois. The left side faces away from notable terrain during initial climb. Notable sights include: Illinois River (visible as a winding waterway below), Decatur city grid, agricultural patchwork of central Illinois, Lake Decatur (small but visible near departure).
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. On final approach to O'Hare from the south, the left side provides views of Chicago's downtown skyline, Lake Michigan shoreline, and the city's grid pattern. The right side faces industrial areas and inland terrain with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (eastern boundary of Chicago), Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, Chicago River, Lake Shore Drive corridor.
How long is the flight from Decatur to Chicago?
The flight from Decatur Airport (DEC) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 156 miles (252 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Decatur to Chicago flight path pass over?
Illinois farmland and prairie landscape, Sangamon River valley, transition from central Illinois agricultural region to suburban Chicago sprawl, Des Plaines River valley approaching O'Hare