Both sides share the same flat Midwest takeoff terrain and hours of open Atlantic during cruise, but the left side's approach into Naples—with Vesuvius, the bay, and the Sorrento coastline—is more visually dramatic than the right side's brief Chicago skyline view, tipping the overall balance.
Flight Path
Great Lakes region and southern Quebec, the Newfoundland coastline, several hours over the open North Atlantic, then the coasts of Ireland or southwestern England before crossing France and the Alps on the way into Italy
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase

Takeoff from ORD
RIGHTEastbound departures from ORD climb out directly over Lake Michigan, putting the Chicago skyline and lakefront on the right side of the aircraft. It's a brief but genuinely scenic urban-water view before the route turns toward the Great Lakes and Canada.
Landing at NAP
LEFTOn approach to Naples using runway 24, the flight path descends over Mount Vesuvius before turning toward the coast, putting the volcano and its surrounding towns on the left side of the cabin. This is a rare case of a genuinely dramatic volcanic landmark visible right before touchdown.
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 Capodichino (NAP)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Naples. Both sides share the same flat Midwest takeoff terrain and hours of open Atlantic during cruise, but the left side's approach into Naples—with Vesuvius, the bay, and the Sorrento coastline—is more visually dramatic than the right side's brief Chicago skyline view, tipping the overall balance.
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. Eastbound departures from ORD climb out directly over Lake Michigan, putting the Chicago skyline and lakefront on the right side of the aircraft. It's a brief but genuinely scenic urban-water view before the route turns toward the Great Lakes and Canada. Notable sights include: Chicago skyline (Willis Tower, John Hancock Center), Navy Pier, Lake Michigan shoreline.
What can I see when landing at Capodichino in Naples?
When landing at Capodichino (NAP), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach to Naples using runway 24, the flight path descends over Mount Vesuvius before turning toward the coast, putting the volcano and its surrounding towns on the left side of the cabin. This is a rare case of a genuinely dramatic volcanic landmark visible right before touchdown. Notable sights include: Mount Vesuvius, Bay of Naples, city of Naples, Sorrento Peninsula.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Naples?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Capodichino (NAP) takes 9h 45m.
What does the Chicago to Naples flight path pass over?
Great Lakes region and southern Quebec, the Newfoundland coastline, several hours over the open North Atlantic, then the coasts of Ireland or southwestern England before crossing France and the Alps on the way into Italy