The takeoff view of Lake Michigan and Chicago's waterfront is more visually distinctive than the landing approach. While the Des Moines River valley is pleasant, the lake provides a larger, more dramatic geographic feature that dominates the early flight segment.
Flown ORD to DSM? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Des Moines is 298 miles (480 km), a flight of about 1 hour 10 minutes.
The flight path westward crosses central Illinois farmland, with the Rock River visible in some conditions near the Illinois-Iowa border. The landscape is predominantly flat agricultural terrain with occasional small towns and county roads visible as grid patterns. No major mountain ranges or dramatic topography; the interest lies in the patchwork of crop fields and the gradual transition from Illinois to Iowa prairie.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago shoreline during the initial climb-out westward. The lake's expanse and the contrast between urban development and water create the most visually interesting departure scene.
Landing at DSM
RIGHTRight-side seats provide views of the Des Moines River valley and the city's downtown area during the final approach from the east. The river's meandering path and the urban core create a clear focal point as you descend into DSM.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Des Moines International (DSM)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Des Moines. The takeoff view of Lake Michigan and Chicago's waterfront is more visually distinctive than the landing approach. While the Des Moines River valley is pleasant, the lake provides a larger, more dramatic geographic feature that dominates the early flight segment.
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 seats offer views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago shoreline during the initial climb-out westward. The lake's expanse and the contrast between urban development and water create the most visually interesting departure scene. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline, Illinois River to the west, suburban sprawl transitioning to farmland.
What can I see when landing at Des Moines International in Des Moines?
When landing at Des Moines International (DSM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats provide views of the Des Moines River valley and the city's downtown area during the final approach from the east. The river's meandering path and the urban core create a clear focal point as you descend into DSM. Notable sights include: Des Moines River, downtown Des Moines skyline, Saylorville Lake to the north, agricultural fields and prairie.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Des Moines?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Des Moines International (DSM) takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 298 miles (480 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Des Moines flight path pass over?
The flight path westward crosses central Illinois farmland, with the Rock River visible in some conditions near the Illinois-Iowa border. The landscape is predominantly flat agricultural terrain with occasional small towns and county roads visible as grid patterns. No major mountain ranges or dramatic topography; the interest lies in the patchwork of crop fields and the gradual transition from Illinois to Iowa prairie.