Right-side seats capture the most visually interesting segments: Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline during departure, then the Tennessee River valley and Appalachian foothills during descent. The left side offers good landing views but less compelling scenery during the long middle cruise phase.
Flown ORD to HSV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Huntsville is 511 miles (822 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Indiana and Kentucky. Notable features include the Ohio River valley (visible from altitude as a distinct river corridor with bluffs), the rolling terrain of southern Indiana and northern Kentucky, and the transition from flat Midwest prairie to the foothills of the Appalachian region. The Cumberland Plateau becomes visible on the eastern horizon during descent into Alabama.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Lake Michigan as the aircraft climbs southwestward from ORD. You'll see the shoreline and downtown Chicago's skyline receding, with the lake dominating the early climb-out phase.
Landing at HSV
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views during the descent approach into HSV. You'll see the Tennessee River valley and the Appalachian foothills rising to the east, with Huntsville's urban area visible below during final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Huntsville International Airport (HSV)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Huntsville. Right-side seats capture the most visually interesting segments: Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline during departure, then the Tennessee River valley and Appalachian foothills during descent. The left side offers good landing views but less compelling scenery during the long middle cruise phase.
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 offer views of Lake Michigan as the aircraft climbs southwestward from ORD. You'll see the shoreline and downtown Chicago's skyline receding, with the lake dominating the early climb-out phase. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline, Des Plaines River valley, Illinois prairie grid.
What can I see when landing at Huntsville International Airport in Huntsville?
When landing at Huntsville International Airport (HSV), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views during the descent approach into HSV. You'll see the Tennessee River valley and the Appalachian foothills rising to the east, with Huntsville's urban area visible below during final approach. Notable sights include: Tennessee River, Appalachian foothills, Huntsville urban grid, Monte Sano Mountain.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Huntsville?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Huntsville International Airport (HSV) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 511 miles (822 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Huntsville flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Indiana and Kentucky. Notable features include the Ohio River valley (visible from altitude as a distinct river corridor with bluffs), the rolling terrain of southern Indiana and northern Kentucky, and the transition from flat Midwest prairie to the foothills of the Appalachian region. The Cumberland Plateau becomes visible on the eastern horizon during descent into Alabama.