The great-circle track from Chicago to Vienna arcs north across the Atlantic, passing close to southern Greenland's ice sheet and fjords and near Iceland's volcanic highlands — both of which sit to the north of the flight path and are visible from the left side, giving that side far more dramatic and varied scenery than the ocean-dominated right side.
Flown ORD to VIE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Vienna is 4,702 miles (7,566 km), a flight of about 9 hours 15 minutes.
Labrador Sea, southern Greenland's coastal ice sheet near Cape Farewell, Icelandic highlands and volcanic terrain, open North Atlantic waters approaching Scotland
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
RIGHTEastbound departures from ORD typically climb out on a northeast heading, putting downtown Chicago and the Lake Michigan shoreline off the right side of the aircraft as it banks away from the airport.
Landing at VIE
RIGHTOn approach into Vienna from the northwest, the final turn toward the runway typically brings the wooded hills of the Vienna Woods and the Danube's course into view on the right side just before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Schwechat (VIE)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Vienna. The great-circle track from Chicago to Vienna arcs north across the Atlantic, passing close to southern Greenland's ice sheet and fjords and near Iceland's volcanic highlands — both of which sit to the north of the flight path and are visible from the left side, giving that side far more dramatic and varied scenery than the ocean-dominated right side.
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 typically climb out on a northeast heading, putting downtown Chicago and the Lake Michigan shoreline off the right side of the aircraft as it banks away from the airport. Notable sights include: Chicago downtown skyline (Willis Tower), Navy Pier, Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago's Loop lakefront parks.
What can I see when landing at Schwechat in Vienna?
When landing at Schwechat (VIE), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into Vienna from the northwest, the final turn toward the runway typically brings the wooded hills of the Vienna Woods and the Danube's course into view on the right side just before touchdown. Notable sights include: Vienna Woods (Wienerwald) foothills, Danube River bend, Vienna city skyline with St. Stephen's Cathedral spire, Schwechat's industrial riverside district.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Vienna?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Schwechat (VIE) takes about 9 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,702 miles (7,566 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Vienna flight path pass over?
Labrador Sea, southern Greenland's coastal ice sheet near Cape Farewell, Icelandic highlands and volcanic terrain, open North Atlantic waters approaching Scotland