While left offers better views during Chicago departure, right seats provide superior scenery during the longer descent into Milan, including the dramatic Alps approach and Po valley agricultural landscape. The landing views outweigh the takeoff advantage.
Flown ORD to LIN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Milan is 4,540 miles (7,306 km), a flight of about 10 hours.
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean (no distinctive features), then passes over the British Isles and North Sea, the Pennines and Scottish Highlands (visible on northerly routing), the North Sea coast of continental Europe, and the Rhine valley. Depending on exact routing, you may see the Vosges Mountains or Black Forest region of eastern France before descending into the Alps approach corridor toward Milan.
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
LEFTLeft seats offer views of Lake Michigan immediately after departure, with the Chicago shoreline and downtown skyline visible during climb-out. Right seats face inland toward flat terrain with fewer distinctive features.
Landing at LIN
RIGHTRight seats provide excellent views during descent into Milan from the north. You'll see the Alps on the right side during approach, and the Po River valley with its agricultural grid pattern becomes visible as you descend toward Linate.
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 Linate (LIN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Milan. While left offers better views during Chicago departure, right seats provide superior scenery during the longer descent into Milan, including the dramatic Alps approach and Po valley agricultural landscape. The landing views outweigh the takeoff advantage.
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 seats offer views of Lake Michigan immediately after departure, with the Chicago shoreline and downtown skyline visible during climb-out. Right seats face inland toward flat terrain with fewer distinctive features. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (eastern shore), Chicago downtown skyline, Indiana coastline to the south.
What can I see when landing at Linate in Milan?
When landing at Linate (LIN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right seats provide excellent views during descent into Milan from the north. You'll see the Alps on the right side during approach, and the Po River valley with its agricultural grid pattern becomes visible as you descend toward Linate. Notable sights include: The Alps (southern face, appearing on the right horizon), Po River valley (agricultural patchwork), Ticino River confluence, Milan urban sprawl.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Milan?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Linate (LIN) takes about 10 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 4,540 miles (7,306 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Milan flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean (no distinctive features), then passes over the British Isles and North Sea, the Pennines and Scottish Highlands (visible on northerly routing), the North Sea coast of continental Europe, and the Rhine valley. Depending on exact routing, you may see the Vosges Mountains or Black Forest region of eastern France before descending into the Alps approach corridor toward Milan.