Right side scores 2.5 versus left's 2.0. While this route crosses predominantly flat terrain with limited dramatic scenery, the right side captures the Caprock Escarpment during departure and the Lake Michigan shoreline plus Chicago skyline during arrival. Left side offers only featureless plains and suburbs throughout. Neither side reaches 3.0 because the route lacks mountains, canyons, or significant geographic drama—typical for Great Plains-to-Midwest flights—but right provides marginally more visual interest at both ends.
Flown LBB to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Lubbock to Chicago is 950 miles (1,529 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
Oklahoma Panhandle (flat grassland), Arkansas River valley (subtle drainage feature), Missouri River crossing near Kansas-Missouri border, Mississippi River crossing near Illinois-Missouri border, Illinois farmland and prairie remnants
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LBB
RIGHTDeparting Lubbock typically uses runway 35L (northbound) or 17R (southbound) depending on wind. Right-side departures capture the South Plains terrain and occasional views of the Caprock Escarpment's eastern edge as the aircraft climbs northeastward toward cruise altitude. Left side offers only flat, featureless plains.
Landing at ORD
RIGHTApproaching Chicago from the southwest, aircraft typically descend on a northeast vector toward ORD's east-west runways. Right-side passengers see Lake Michigan's western shoreline, the Chicago skyline, and downtown high-rises during final approach. Left side shows only inland Illinois farmland and suburbs.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Lubbock International (LBB) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Lubbock to Chicago. Right side scores 2.5 versus left's 2.0. While this route crosses predominantly flat terrain with limited dramatic scenery, the right side captures the Caprock Escarpment during departure and the Lake Michigan shoreline plus Chicago skyline during arrival. Left side offers only featureless plains and suburbs throughout. Neither side reaches 3.0 because the route lacks mountains, canyons, or significant geographic drama—typical for Great Plains-to-Midwest flights—but right provides marginally more visual interest at both ends.
What can I see during takeoff from Lubbock International in Lubbock?
During takeoff from Lubbock International (LBB), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing Lubbock typically uses runway 35L (northbound) or 17R (southbound) depending on wind. Right-side departures capture the South Plains terrain and occasional views of the Caprock Escarpment's eastern edge as the aircraft climbs northeastward toward cruise altitude. Left side offers only flat, featureless plains. Notable sights include: Caprock Escarpment (distant eastern horizon), Lubbock city grid, South Plains agricultural patchwork.
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. Approaching Chicago from the southwest, aircraft typically descend on a northeast vector toward ORD's east-west runways. Right-side passengers see Lake Michigan's western shoreline, the Chicago skyline, and downtown high-rises during final approach. Left side shows only inland Illinois farmland and suburbs. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, Grant Park waterfront, suburban Chicago sprawl.
How long is the flight from Lubbock to Chicago?
The flight from Lubbock International (LBB) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 950 miles (1,529 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Lubbock to Chicago flight path pass over?
Oklahoma Panhandle (flat grassland), Arkansas River valley (subtle drainage feature), Missouri River crossing near Kansas-Missouri border, Mississippi River crossing near Illinois-Missouri border, Illinois farmland and prairie remnants