Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Colombo. While left offers the Lake Michigan departure, right seats dominate the flight overall. The long transoceanic route crosses the Atlantic, Mediterranean, Red Sea, and Arabian Sea—all best viewed from the right side during daylight hours. The final approach into Colombo also favors right seats significantly.

During takeoff from Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left seats offer views of Lake Michigan as the aircraft climbs northeastward over the lake. You'll see the Chicago shoreline receding and the vast expanse of freshwater extending to the horizon. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline, Indiana coastline to the south, Waukegan area to the north.

When landing at Bandaranaike International (CMB), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right seats provide excellent views during the descent approach to Colombo. You'll see the Indian Ocean, the western coastline of Sri Lanka, and the Colombo harbor area as the aircraft descends toward Bandaranaike International Airport located north of the city. Notable sights include: Indian Ocean, Sri Lankan west coast, Colombo city and harbor, Negombo Lagoon.

The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Bandaranaike International (CMB) takes Approximately 16-17 hours with one stop (typically in Europe or Middle East) or 18-20 hours if direct routing is available.

The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean (Greenland and Iceland visible on clear days from either side), then over the United Kingdom and continental Europe. Crossing the Mediterranean Sea offers views of southern Europe and North Africa. The route then passes over the Middle East, with the Red Sea and Arabian Sea providing open water views. The Persian Gulf region and Arabian Peninsula are visible from the right side. The final leg crosses the Arabian Sea toward the Indian subcontinent, with the western coast of India visible before reaching Sri Lanka.