While the right side wins the Chicago departure, the left side dominates the long cruise phase over southern Greenland's ice-capped coast, Iceland, and the fjord-lined coast of southern Norway before descending into Poland — a much rarer and more dramatic sequence of scenery than the flat Midwest and Atlantic seen from the right.
Flown ORD to WAW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Warsaw is 4,672 miles (7,519 km), a flight of about 9 hours 35 minutes.
Labrador Sea, southern tip of Greenland's ice cap, Denmark Strait near Iceland, Norwegian Sea approaching Scandinavia
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
RIGHTDeparting ORD and turning northeast toward the Great Lakes, the right side offers a good look back at the Chicago skyline and the southern tip of Lake Michigan before the plane climbs away over Ontario. It's a strong urban send-off compared to the flat farmland visible on the left.
Landing at WAW
LEFTOn approach into Warsaw from the east, the descent path crosses the Vistula River valley, and the left side gives a clear view of the river winding past the city before the final turn onto the runway. The right side mostly shows flat agricultural plains typical of the Mazovia region.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Okecie (WAW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Warsaw. While the right side wins the Chicago departure, the left side dominates the long cruise phase over southern Greenland's ice-capped coast, Iceland, and the fjord-lined coast of southern Norway before descending into Poland — a much rarer and more dramatic sequence of scenery than the flat Midwest and Atlantic seen from the right.
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. Departing ORD and turning northeast toward the Great Lakes, the right side offers a good look back at the Chicago skyline and the southern tip of Lake Michigan before the plane climbs away over Ontario. It's a strong urban send-off compared to the flat farmland visible on the left. Notable sights include: Chicago skyline (Willis Tower, Loop), Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago's northern suburbs.
What can I see when landing at Okecie in Warsaw?
When landing at Okecie (WAW), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach into Warsaw from the east, the descent path crosses the Vistula River valley, and the left side gives a clear view of the river winding past the city before the final turn onto the runway. The right side mostly shows flat agricultural plains typical of the Mazovia region. Notable sights include: Vistula River, Warsaw city skyline (Old Town and modern towers), Praga district rooftops.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Warsaw?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Okecie (WAW) takes about 9 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,672 miles (7,519 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Warsaw flight path pass over?
Labrador Sea, southern tip of Greenland's ice cap, Denmark Strait near Iceland, Norwegian Sea approaching Scandinavia