The left side delivers a richer, more varied sequence: San Gabriel Mountains at takeoff, then the northern Arizona plateau near the Grand Canyon and the Southern Rockies during cruise, compared to the right side's brief lake-and-skyline payoff only at landing.
Flown LAX to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Los Angeles to Chicago is 1,741 miles (2,802 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
Northern Arizona plateau near the Grand Canyon, Southern Rocky Mountains over Colorado, Great Plains of Kansas and Nebraska
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LAX
LEFTEastbound departures from LAX typically turn north after takeoff to intercept the airway toward Nevada, putting the San Gabriel Mountains and the sprawling LA basin on the left side of the aircraft. The right side mostly shows the flat South Bay and a receding sliver of Pacific coastline.
Landing at ORD
RIGHTArrivals from the west are frequently vectored north of the city before turning south to align with O'Hare's runways, giving a clear view of downtown Chicago's skyline and Lake Michigan's shoreline on the right side during the final turn. The left side shows only flat Illinois farmland and suburban grids.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Chicago. The left side delivers a richer, more varied sequence: San Gabriel Mountains at takeoff, then the northern Arizona plateau near the Grand Canyon and the Southern Rockies during cruise, compared to the right side's brief lake-and-skyline payoff only at landing.
What can I see during takeoff from Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
During takeoff from Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Eastbound departures from LAX typically turn north after takeoff to intercept the airway toward Nevada, putting the San Gabriel Mountains and the sprawling LA basin on the left side of the aircraft. The right side mostly shows the flat South Bay and a receding sliver of Pacific coastline. Notable sights include: San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles basin/downtown skyline, Mojave Desert edge, San Fernando Valley.
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. Arrivals from the west are frequently vectored north of the city before turning south to align with O'Hare's runways, giving a clear view of downtown Chicago's skyline and Lake Michigan's shoreline on the right side during the final turn. The left side shows only flat Illinois farmland and suburban grids. Notable sights include: Chicago skyline (Willis Tower, Loop), Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago River mouth, north suburban grid.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Chicago?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,741 miles (2,802 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Los Angeles to Chicago flight path pass over?
Northern Arizona plateau near the Grand Canyon, Southern Rocky Mountains over Colorado, Great Plains of Kansas and Nebraska