While both sides score equally at 2.5, the right side edges ahead for the full flight experience. Takeoff from LYH offers immediate Blue Ridge foothills scenery that left side cannot match. During cruise, both sides traverse relatively flat Midwest terrain with minimal distinction. At landing, left side wins with Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline views, but the superior takeoff experience on the right side provides more memorable early-flight scenery. For a short 2-hour flight, the dramatic departure sequence carries greater weight than the landing approach.
Flown LYH to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Lynchburg to Chicago is 563 miles (906 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
Appalachian plateau terrain (West Virginia and eastern Ohio), Ohio River valley, scattered ridge lines and forested valleys, transition to Midwest agricultural plains around central Indiana, minimal dramatic elevation changes after crossing into Illinois
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LYH
RIGHTRight side captures the Blue Ridge Mountains foothills immediately after departure from LYH. The terrain rises noticeably to the east and northeast, providing immediate visual interest during climb-out. Left side faces relatively flat Piedmont terrain with scattered development.
Landing at ORD
LEFTLeft side (north) provides views of Chicago's urban landscape and Lake Michigan during approach. Passengers see the downtown skyline, harbor infrastructure, and the lake's shoreline. Right side (south) shows suburban sprawl and industrial areas with less distinctive visual character.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Lynchburg Regional Airport - Preston Glenn Field (LYH) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Lynchburg to Chicago. While both sides score equally at 2.5, the right side edges ahead for the full flight experience. Takeoff from LYH offers immediate Blue Ridge foothills scenery that left side cannot match. During cruise, both sides traverse relatively flat Midwest terrain with minimal distinction. At landing, left side wins with Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline views, but the superior takeoff experience on the right side provides more memorable early-flight scenery. For a short 2-hour flight, the dramatic departure sequence carries greater weight than the landing approach.
What can I see during takeoff from Lynchburg Regional Airport - Preston Glenn Field in Lynchburg?
During takeoff from Lynchburg Regional Airport - Preston Glenn Field (LYH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Blue Ridge Mountains foothills immediately after departure from LYH. The terrain rises noticeably to the east and northeast, providing immediate visual interest during climb-out. Left side faces relatively flat Piedmont terrain with scattered development. Notable sights include: Blue Ridge Mountains foothills (east), James River valley (south), Lynchburg urban area (immediate vicinity), Appalachian ridge lines (distant northeast).
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. Left side (north) provides views of Chicago's urban landscape and Lake Michigan during approach. Passengers see the downtown skyline, harbor infrastructure, and the lake's shoreline. Right side (south) shows suburban sprawl and industrial areas with less distinctive visual character. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, Grant Park waterfront, O'Hare airport complex and surrounding runways.
How long is the flight from Lynchburg to Chicago?
The flight from Lynchburg Regional Airport - Preston Glenn Field (LYH) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 563 miles (906 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Lynchburg to Chicago flight path pass over?
Appalachian plateau terrain (West Virginia and eastern Ohio), Ohio River valley, scattered ridge lines and forested valleys, transition to Midwest agricultural plains around central Indiana, minimal dramatic elevation changes after crossing into Illinois