About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Barcelona (BCN)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Barcelona. Left side wins both ends of the flight. During the transatlantic cruise at 35,000 feet the views are largely ocean and cloud, but on the northern routing you may catch southern Greenland's ice sheet and the coast of Ireland or Cornwall on the left side as well, making left the clear overall choice.
What can I see during takeoff from Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
During takeoff from Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Left side for the best views. O'Hare's most common eastbound departures use runways 10L/10R, climbing out toward the east-southeast. The left side gives you a clear view south over downtown Chicago's skyline and the lakefront, with Lake Michigan stretching to the horizon. The right side faces north toward the suburbs with little of interest. Notable sights include: Chicago downtown skyline (Willis Tower, John Hancock), Lake Michigan shoreline, Grant Park and Museum Campus, Indiana Dunes coastline to the southeast.
What can I see when landing at Barcelona in Barcelona?
When landing at Barcelona (BCN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Barcelona's primary landing approach on runway 07R/25L typically brings aircraft in from the southwest over the sea, turning to align with the coast. The left side faces north, giving views of the Pyrenees along the horizon, the city of Barcelona itself, and the distinctive coastal plain. The right side faces south over open Mediterranean water. Notable sights include: Pyrenees mountain range on the northern horizon, Barcelona city and Eixample grid, Montjuic hill, Llobregat river delta.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Barcelona?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Barcelona (BCN) takes Approximately 9 to 9.5 hours.
What does the Chicago to Barcelona flight path pass over?
The great circle route arcs north over Quebec and Labrador, then crosses the North Atlantic passing south of Greenland and Iceland, crosses Ireland and the UK, then descends over France and the Gulf of Lion before reaching the Spanish coast. Notable features include the St. Lawrence River estuary, the Labrador coast, possible glimpses of southern Greenland's ice cap, the Irish coastline, the English Channel, and the French Alps visible to the south on descent.