About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Tulsa International (TUL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Tulsa. The left side delivers the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan on departure, which is the single most dramatic visual moment of this flight. The en-route scenery over central Illinois and northeastern Oklahoma is relatively flat and undramatic on both sides, so the takeoff view tips the balance decisively to the left.
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. ORD's most common southbound departures (runways 10L/10C heading east then turning south) put the left side facing the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline. You get a clear view of the downtown Loop, Grant Park, and the lakefront as the aircraft banks south toward Illinois. Notable sights include: Chicago Loop skyline, Lake Michigan shoreline, Grant Park/Museum Campus, Midway Airport to the south.
What can I see when landing at Tulsa International in Tulsa?
When landing at Tulsa International (TUL), sit on the Right side for the best views. TUL typically uses runways 18L/18R for southerly arrivals or runway 26 for westerly approaches. On a south or southwest approach, the right side faces east toward downtown Tulsa, the Arkansas River, and the distinctive BOK Center arena visible in the urban core. The Arkansas River bottomlands and the Tulsa skyline are the main visual payoffs. Notable sights include: Downtown Tulsa skyline, Arkansas River, Keystone Lake to the west, Osage Hills terrain to the northwest.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Tulsa?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Tulsa International (TUL) takes Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
What does the Chicago to Tulsa flight path pass over?
The flight tracks roughly south-southwest over central Illinois farmland, crossing the Illinois River near Peoria, then into Missouri briefly before entering northeastern Oklahoma. The terrain is predominantly flat to gently rolling agricultural land throughout. The Ozark Plateau's low hills become faintly visible on the right side as you cross into Missouri and northern Arkansas airspace. The Illinois and Missouri River valleys appear as subtle dark ribbons cutting through the grid of fields below.