About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Boise Air Terminal (BOI)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Boise. The left side wins both ends of the flight. Over the Rockies mid-flight, the left side also tends to offer slightly better views of the Wasatch Range and southern Idaho volcanic terrain as the route tracks west-northwest. Consistent advantage throughout makes 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. ORD's most common westbound departures use runways 10/28 or 9R/27L, heading west-northwest. The left (south) side gives you a clear view back over downtown Chicago's skyline and Lake Michigan as you climb out and bank northwest. The right side faces north toward suburban sprawl with little of interest. Notable sights include: Downtown Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago River corridor, Midway Airport to the south.
What can I see when landing at Boise Air Terminal in Boise?
When landing at Boise Air Terminal (BOI), sit on the Left side for the best views. BOI's primary arrival from the east typically uses runway 28L/28R, approaching from the east-northeast and landing toward the west. The left (south) side of the aircraft gives you the best view of the Snake River Plain, the Boise Front foothills, and the city of Boise itself spread across the valley floor as you descend. The right side faces north toward more open desert terrain. Notable sights include: Boise city grid and downtown, Snake River Plain, Boise Front (foothills of the Sawtooth/Boise Mountains), Treasure Valley agricultural patchwork.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Boise?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Boise Air Terminal (BOI) takes Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Chicago to Boise flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Mississippi River near the Quad Cities, then the flat Iowa and Nebraska plains, before the terrain rises dramatically over the Wyoming Basin and the Rockies. The Snake River Plain of southern Idaho is visible on descent — a vast flat lava plain flanked by mountain ranges. The Wasatch Range may be visible to the south depending on routing. Wind River Range peaks in Wyoming can appear to the left side at cruising altitude.