While the ORD departure favors the left side for the Chicago skyline, the right side wins overall thanks to the Appalachian ridgelines of West Virginia and Virginia visible during cruise and the dramatic Chesapeake Bay and Hampton Roads coastal scenery on final approach into Norfolk.
Flown ORD to ORF? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Norfolk is 716 miles (1,152 km), a flight of about 1 hour 55 minutes.
The flight path crosses the rolling terrain of Ohio, then the ridge-and-valley Appalachian folds of West Virginia and western Virginia, before descending toward the flat coastal plain and tidal rivers near the Chesapeake Bay.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
LEFTDeparting ORD eastbound, the initial climb passes just south of downtown Chicago, giving left-side passengers a good look at the skyline and the southern edge of Lake Michigan before the plane turns southeast toward Indiana.
Landing at ORF
RIGHTOn approach into ORF, the descent path crosses the Hampton Roads area, giving right-side passengers views of the Chesapeake Bay mouth, the Elizabeth River, and the Norfolk Naval Station waterfront before touching down on runway 5 or 23.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Norfolk International (ORF)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Norfolk. While the ORD departure favors the left side for the Chicago skyline, the right side wins overall thanks to the Appalachian ridgelines of West Virginia and Virginia visible during cruise and the dramatic Chesapeake Bay and Hampton Roads coastal scenery on final approach into Norfolk.
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 eastbound, the initial climb passes just south of downtown Chicago, giving left-side passengers a good look at the skyline and the southern edge of Lake Michigan before the plane turns southeast toward Indiana. Notable sights include: Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago's southern suburbs, O'Hare's runway complex below.
What can I see when landing at Norfolk International in Norfolk?
When landing at Norfolk International (ORF), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into ORF, the descent path crosses the Hampton Roads area, giving right-side passengers views of the Chesapeake Bay mouth, the Elizabeth River, and the Norfolk Naval Station waterfront before touching down on runway 5 or 23. Notable sights include: Chesapeake Bay entrance, Hampton Roads harbor, Norfolk Naval Station piers, Elizabeth River.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Norfolk?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Norfolk International (ORF) takes about 1 hour 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 716 miles (1,152 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Norfolk flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the rolling terrain of Ohio, then the ridge-and-valley Appalachian folds of West Virginia and western Virginia, before descending toward the flat coastal plain and tidal rivers near the Chesapeake Bay.