While takeoff is unremarkable on both sides over flat Midwest terrain, the right side pulls ahead during cruise with glimpses of Nebraska's Sandhills and Wyoming's high plains, and it wins decisively on approach with the Teton Range filling the window during the descent into Jackson Hole.
Flown ORD to JAC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Jackson is 1,159 miles (1,866 km), a flight of about 2 hours 55 minutes.
Missouri River near Omaha, the Nebraska Sandhills, and the high plains of eastern Wyoming leading toward the Wind River Range foothills before descending into the Teton-rimmed Jackson Hole valley
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
RIGHTDepartures from ORD on this westbound routing climb out over flat Illinois farmland with little to distinguish either side. The right side offers a marginally better look at the Fox River valley and grid-pattern fields as the aircraft settles onto its northwest heading, but neither side has real landmarks this early in the flight.
Landing at JAC
RIGHTJAC's final approach on runway 19 flies south down the Jackson Hole valley, putting the jagged Teton Range - including Grand Teton itself - directly off the right side of the aircraft. This is one of the most dramatic mountain approaches in the U.S. commercial aviation system.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Jackson. While takeoff is unremarkable on both sides over flat Midwest terrain, the right side pulls ahead during cruise with glimpses of Nebraska's Sandhills and Wyoming's high plains, and it wins decisively on approach with the Teton Range filling the window during the descent into Jackson Hole.
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. Departures from ORD on this westbound routing climb out over flat Illinois farmland with little to distinguish either side. The right side offers a marginally better look at the Fox River valley and grid-pattern fields as the aircraft settles onto its northwest heading, but neither side has real landmarks this early in the flight. Notable sights include: Fox River valley, Illinois farmland grid patterns, Chicago's western exurbs.
What can I see when landing at Jackson Hole Airport in Jackson?
When landing at Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), sit on the Right side for the best views. JAC's final approach on runway 19 flies south down the Jackson Hole valley, putting the jagged Teton Range - including Grand Teton itself - directly off the right side of the aircraft. This is one of the most dramatic mountain approaches in the U.S. commercial aviation system. Notable sights include: Grand Teton, Teton Range, Snake River, Jackson Hole valley floor.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Jackson?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) takes about 2 hours 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,159 miles (1,866 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Jackson flight path pass over?
Missouri River near Omaha, the Nebraska Sandhills, and the high plains of eastern Wyoming leading toward the Wind River Range foothills before descending into the Teton-rimmed Jackson Hole valley