The left side wins narrowly thanks to the strong Chicago skyline and lake departure view, which is more visually striking than the flat Midwest and Florida terrain seen for most of the flight. Neither side has mountains or coastline drama, keeping both scores modest.
Flight Path
Flat terrain over Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia farmland and forest, with the Ohio River and Tennessee River valleys crossed roughly midway, though not prominently distinguishable from cruising altitude.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
LEFTDeparting ORD to the south/southeast, the left side gives a good view of Chicago's downtown skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline shrinking behind as the plane climbs out. The right side just shows flat suburban sprawl.
Landing at MCO
RIGHTOn approach into MCO from the north, the right side offers views of Orlando's many lakes, theme park areas, and the city's low-rise skyline as the plane descends. The left side is mostly flat, undifferentiated Florida scrubland and farmland.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Orlando International (MCO)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Orlando. The left side wins narrowly thanks to the strong Chicago skyline and lake departure view, which is more visually striking than the flat Midwest and Florida terrain seen for most of the flight. Neither side has mountains or coastline drama, keeping both scores modest.
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. Departing ORD to the south/southeast, the left side gives a good view of Chicago's downtown skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline shrinking behind as the plane climbs out. The right side just shows flat suburban sprawl. Notable sights include: Chicago skyline (Willis Tower, Loop), Lake Michigan shoreline, Midway Airport area.
What can I see when landing at Orlando International in Orlando?
When landing at Orlando International (MCO), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into MCO from the north, the right side offers views of Orlando's many lakes, theme park areas, and the city's low-rise skyline as the plane descends. The left side is mostly flat, undifferentiated Florida scrubland and farmland. Notable sights include: Orlando's lake-dotted terrain, Downtown Orlando skyline, theme park complexes (visible as large landscaped areas).
How long is the flight from Chicago to Orlando?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Orlando International (MCO) takes 2h 35m.
What does the Chicago to Orlando flight path pass over?
Flat terrain over Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia farmland and forest, with the Ohio River and Tennessee River valleys crossed roughly midway, though not prominently distinguishable from cruising altitude.