While both sides score equally at 1.5 due to the short, flat nature of this 45-minute flight over Midwestern terrain, the left side wins on takeoff with genuine urban and water scenery (Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan), whereas the landing view is comparable on both sides. Left provides the more memorable visual experience overall.
Flown ORD to CMI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Savoy is 135 miles (218 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.
Flat agricultural plains of central Illinois, occasional small towns and county roads, sparse tree lines along creeks and property boundaries, no significant elevation changes or water bodies between Chicago and Champaign-Urbana
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
LEFTLeft side captures Chicago's downtown skyline and Lake Michigan waterfront during climb-out. Right side faces inland toward flat suburban sprawl with no distinctive landmarks.
Landing at CMI
RIGHTRight side (south/southwest approach) offers views of the Champaign-Urbana urban area and surrounding agricultural landscape. Left side faces open farmland with minimal visual interest during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Savoy. While both sides score equally at 1.5 due to the short, flat nature of this 45-minute flight over Midwestern terrain, the left side wins on takeoff with genuine urban and water scenery (Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan), whereas the landing view is comparable on both sides. Left provides the more memorable visual experience overall.
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. Left side captures Chicago's downtown skyline and Lake Michigan waterfront during climb-out. Right side faces inland toward flat suburban sprawl with no distinctive landmarks. Notable sights include: Chicago downtown skyline, Lake Michigan shoreline, Grant Park, Willis Tower.
What can I see when landing at University of Illinois Willard Airport in Savoy?
When landing at University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (south/southwest approach) offers views of the Champaign-Urbana urban area and surrounding agricultural landscape. Left side faces open farmland with minimal visual interest during descent. Notable sights include: Champaign-Urbana city grid, University of Illinois campus, surrounding corn and soybean fields, Willard Airport runway.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Savoy?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 135 miles (218 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Savoy flight path pass over?
Flat agricultural plains of central Illinois, occasional small towns and county roads, sparse tree lines along creeks and property boundaries, no significant elevation changes or water bodies between Chicago and Champaign-Urbana