Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery from Lexington. The Kentucky River valley, rolling Bluegrass terrain, and Appalachian foothills provide genuine topographic variety and recognizable landmarks during climb-out. While the landing into Chicago favors the right side, the takeoff advantage and the full-flight consideration of terrain drama across the route give left the edge. The flight path crosses relatively flat Midwest terrain for most of the cruise, making the distinctive departure scenery more valuable than the approach.
Flown LEX to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Lexington to Chicago is 324 miles (521 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Ohio River valley near Cincinnati (visible from altitude as a major river corridor), transition from Appalachian foothills to Midwest plains, Indiana agricultural landscape, scattered lakes and reservoirs in central Indiana
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LEX
LEFTLeft side captures the Bluegrass region's rolling terrain and the Kentucky River valley during climb-out from LEX. The landscape transitions from urban Lexington to pastoral farmland with visible ridge lines and water features. Right side shows flat agricultural plains with minimal topographic variation.
Landing at ORD
RIGHTRight side provides the superior approach into ORD, with views of Lake Michigan's shoreline, the Chicago skyline, and the urban grid of the city during descent. Left side shows only flat Illinois farmland and suburban sprawl without distinctive landmarks.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Blue Grass Airport (LEX) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Lexington to Chicago. Left side scores higher due to superior takeoff scenery from Lexington. The Kentucky River valley, rolling Bluegrass terrain, and Appalachian foothills provide genuine topographic variety and recognizable landmarks during climb-out. While the landing into Chicago favors the right side, the takeoff advantage and the full-flight consideration of terrain drama across the route give left the edge. The flight path crosses relatively flat Midwest terrain for most of the cruise, making the distinctive departure scenery more valuable than the approach.
What can I see during takeoff from Blue Grass Airport in Lexington?
During takeoff from Blue Grass Airport (LEX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Bluegrass region's rolling terrain and the Kentucky River valley during climb-out from LEX. The landscape transitions from urban Lexington to pastoral farmland with visible ridge lines and water features. Right side shows flat agricultural plains with minimal topographic variation. Notable sights include: Kentucky River valley, Lexington urban grid, rolling Bluegrass hills, ridge lines of the Appalachian foothills.
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 superior approach into ORD, with views of Lake Michigan's shoreline, the Chicago skyline, and the urban grid of the city during descent. Left side shows only flat Illinois farmland and suburban sprawl without distinctive landmarks. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago downtown skyline, Grant Park, O'Hare runway complex.
How long is the flight from Lexington to Chicago?
The flight from Blue Grass Airport (LEX) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 324 miles (521 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Lexington to Chicago flight path pass over?
Ohio River valley near Cincinnati (visible from altitude as a major river corridor), transition from Appalachian foothills to Midwest plains, Indiana agricultural landscape, scattered lakes and reservoirs in central Indiana