Both sides score equally low (1.5) because this is a short 50-minute flight over flat Midwestern terrain with minimal elevation change or dramatic landmarks. However, the left side edges ahead due to Chicago's distinctive urban departure scenery and Lake Michigan waterfront, which provides brief visual interest that the right side's featureless prairie cannot match. Neither side offers compelling scenic value for the full flight.
Flown ORD to FSD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Sioux Falls is 461 miles (743 km), a flight of about 1 hour 40 minutes.
Flat agricultural prairie of northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin; scattered small lakes and wetlands; no mountains, canyons, or major rivers; terrain remains uniformly flat throughout cruise altitude
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
LEFTLeft side captures Chicago's urban skyline and Lake Michigan waterfront during departure, providing brief but recognizable city scenery. Right side faces inland toward flat suburban sprawl with no distinctive landmarks.
Landing at FSD
RIGHTRight side offers slightly better views during approach to Sioux Falls, with the Big Sioux River valley and surrounding prairie terrain becoming visible. Left side remains featureless prairie throughout descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Sioux Falls. Both sides score equally low (1.5) because this is a short 50-minute flight over flat Midwestern terrain with minimal elevation change or dramatic landmarks. However, the left side edges ahead due to Chicago's distinctive urban departure scenery and Lake Michigan waterfront, which provides brief visual interest that the right side's featureless prairie cannot match. Neither side offers compelling scenic value for 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 Left side for the best views. Left side captures Chicago's urban skyline and Lake Michigan waterfront during departure, providing brief but recognizable city scenery. Right side faces inland toward flat suburban sprawl with no distinctive landmarks. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago downtown skyline, O'Hare runway complex.
What can I see when landing at Sioux Falls Regional Airport in Sioux Falls?
When landing at Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers slightly better views during approach to Sioux Falls, with the Big Sioux River valley and surrounding prairie terrain becoming visible. Left side remains featureless prairie throughout descent. Notable sights include: Big Sioux River valley, Sioux Falls city grid, surrounding prairie grassland.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Sioux Falls?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD) takes about 1 hour 40 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 461 miles (743 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Sioux Falls flight path pass over?
Flat agricultural prairie of northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin; scattered small lakes and wetlands; no mountains, canyons, or major rivers; terrain remains uniformly flat throughout cruise altitude