The cruise phase heavily favors the left side, which faces north across the Labrador Sea toward Greenland's ice sheet and Iceland's volcanic terrain, some of the most dramatic scenery on any transatlantic route. Combined with a strong left-side view during the Doha approach, the left side offers more variety and drama over the full flight.
Flight Path
Southern Greenland ice sheet and coastal fjords, the Labrador Sea, and later Eastern Europe and the Black Sea region before crossing into Turkey and Iraq en route to the Persian Gulf
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
RIGHTDeparting ORD toward the northeast, the initial climb and turn put Chicago's downtown skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline on the right side of the aircraft. It's a brief but strong urban view before the route settles onto its long overwater track.
Landing at DOH
LEFTOn approach into DOH from the north, the aircraft descends over the Gulf with Doha's coastal skyline and artificial islands visible on the left side just before touchdown. The turquoise water and modern skyline give a striking contrast to the desert interior on the right.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Hamad International Airport (DOH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Doha. The cruise phase heavily favors the left side, which faces north across the Labrador Sea toward Greenland's ice sheet and Iceland's volcanic terrain, some of the most dramatic scenery on any transatlantic route. Combined with a strong left-side view during the Doha approach, the left side offers more variety and drama over the full flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
During takeoff from Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing ORD toward the northeast, the initial climb and turn put Chicago's downtown skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline on the right side of the aircraft. It's a brief but strong urban view before the route settles onto its long overwater track. Notable sights include: Chicago skyline (Willis Tower, Loop), Lake Michigan shoreline, Navy Pier area.
What can I see when landing at Hamad International Airport in Doha?
When landing at Hamad International Airport (DOH), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach into DOH from the north, the aircraft descends over the Gulf with Doha's coastal skyline and artificial islands visible on the left side just before touchdown. The turquoise water and modern skyline give a striking contrast to the desert interior on the right. Notable sights include: Doha skyline (West Bay towers), The Pearl-Qatar island, Persian Gulf coastline, Hamad International Airport's reclaimed shoreline.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Doha?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Hamad International Airport (DOH) takes 13h 45m.
What does the Chicago to Doha flight path pass over?
Southern Greenland ice sheet and coastal fjords, the Labrador Sea, and later Eastern Europe and the Black Sea region before crossing into Turkey and Iraq en route to the Persian Gulf