Right-side seats deliver superior scenery on both legs: the dramatic Lake Michigan departure and Chicago skyline on takeoff outweigh the landing views. The 45-minute flight is short, making the initial climb-out experience the dominant visual opportunity.
Flown ORD to FNT? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Flint is 223 miles (359 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.
Saginaw Bay shoreline, Michigan's Lower Peninsula interior lakes and agricultural landscape, the transition from Lake Michigan basin to the Thumb region's flatter terrain
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the initial climb-out over Lake Michigan and the Chicago shoreline, with views of downtown Chicago's skyline receding to the west. The eastward departure path over the lake provides the most dramatic early scenery before turning northeast toward Flint.
Landing at FNT
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views during the descent approach into Flint, with sightlines across the Saginaw Bay region and the Thumb of Michigan. The westbound approach path aligns well with left-side visibility of the bay's eastern shoreline and inland lakes.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Bishop International Airport (FNT)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Flint. Right-side seats deliver superior scenery on both legs: the dramatic Lake Michigan departure and Chicago skyline on takeoff outweigh the landing views. The 45-minute flight is short, making the initial climb-out experience the dominant visual opportunity.
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. Right-side seats capture the initial climb-out over Lake Michigan and the Chicago shoreline, with views of downtown Chicago's skyline receding to the west. The eastward departure path over the lake provides the most dramatic early scenery before turning northeast toward Flint. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (immediate east), Chicago downtown skyline and lakefront (west/southwest), suburban Chicago sprawl (west), Indiana shoreline (south).
What can I see when landing at Bishop International Airport in Flint?
When landing at Bishop International Airport (FNT), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer views during the descent approach into Flint, with sightlines across the Saginaw Bay region and the Thumb of Michigan. The westbound approach path aligns well with left-side visibility of the bay's eastern shoreline and inland lakes. Notable sights include: Saginaw Bay (north/northeast), Thumb of Michigan peninsula (northeast), Flint River valley (west), inland lakes and wetlands (surrounding approach corridor).
How long is the flight from Chicago to Flint?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Bishop International Airport (FNT) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 223 miles (359 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Flint flight path pass over?
Saginaw Bay shoreline, Michigan's Lower Peninsula interior lakes and agricultural landscape, the transition from Lake Michigan basin to the Thumb region's flatter terrain