Takeoff views of Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline outweigh the landing approach. The lake and urban core are more visually distinctive than the farmland descent into Decatur.
Flown ORD to DEC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Decatur is 156 miles (252 km), a flight of about 25 minutes.
Iroquois River valley, Kankakee River floodplain, transition from Lake Michigan drainage basin to Sangamon River watershed, scattered small towns and agricultural checkerboard pattern across central Illinois
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
LEFTLeft side offers views of Lake Michigan as you climb out southwestward from ORD, plus the Chicago skyline receding behind. Right side faces inland toward suburban sprawl with minimal visual interest.
Landing at DEC
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Sangamon River valley and central Illinois farmland as you descend toward Decatur. Left side faces away from the airport approach corridor and offers only flat agricultural terrain.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Decatur Airport (DEC)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Decatur. Takeoff views of Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline outweigh the landing approach. The lake and urban core are more visually distinctive than the farmland descent into Decatur.
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 offers views of Lake Michigan as you climb out southwestward from ORD, plus the Chicago skyline receding behind. Right side faces inland toward suburban sprawl with minimal visual interest. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (eastern shore), Chicago downtown skyline, Des Plaines River valley.
What can I see when landing at Decatur Airport in Decatur?
When landing at Decatur Airport (DEC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Sangamon River valley and central Illinois farmland as you descend toward Decatur. Left side faces away from the airport approach corridor and offers only flat agricultural terrain. Notable sights include: Sangamon River, Decatur city grid, central Illinois agricultural plains, Lake Decatur (small reservoir).
How long is the flight from Chicago to Decatur?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Decatur Airport (DEC) takes about 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 156 miles (252 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Decatur flight path pass over?
Iroquois River valley, Kankakee River floodplain, transition from Lake Michigan drainage basin to Sangamon River watershed, scattered small towns and agricultural checkerboard pattern across central Illinois