While the Black Hills offer excellent scenery on takeoff from Rapid City, the landing approach into Chicago provides more sustained and dramatic views—Lake Michigan, the iconic skyline, and the urban waterfront are far more visually distinctive than the relatively flat middle section of the flight across Iowa and Illinois.
Flight Path
Des Moines area and Iowa River valley (central Iowa), Mississippi River near the Illinois–Iowa border, Illinois prairie and farmland grid pattern, scattered lakes and reservoirs across central Illinois
Phase by phase
Takeoff from
Landing at
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
Will your flight be in sunlight?
See exactly which side of the plane gets sun and shade at your departure time.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Rapid City to Chicago. While the Black Hills offer excellent scenery on takeoff from Rapid City, the landing approach into Chicago provides more sustained and dramatic views—Lake Michigan, the iconic skyline, and the urban waterfront are far more visually distinctive than the relatively flat middle section of the flight across Iowa and Illinois.
What can I see during takeoff from Rapid City Regional Airport in Rapid City?
During takeoff from Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers immediate views of the Black Hills as you climb out eastbound. The granite peaks and forested ridges of this distinctive mountain range are visible within the first 10–15 minutes of flight, providing striking contrast against the surrounding Great Plains. Notable sights include: Black Hills (granite peaks and ridgelines), Harney Peak (highest point in South Dakota, ~7,242 ft), Rapid Creek valley below, Great Plains extending eastward.
What can I see when landing at Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
When landing at Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides the best views during the westbound approach into Chicago. You'll see Lake Michigan on the right as you descend, followed by the Chicago skyline and downtown high-rises becoming visible. The contrast between the blue water and urban grid is striking from 5,000–10,000 feet. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (western shoreline and water surface), Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, Lake Shore Drive corridor, Grant Park green space along the waterfront.
How long is the flight from Rapid City to Chicago?
The flight from Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes 3h 15m.
What does the Rapid City to Chicago flight path pass over?
Des Moines area and Iowa River valley (central Iowa), Mississippi River near the Illinois–Iowa border, Illinois prairie and farmland grid pattern, scattered lakes and reservoirs across central Illinois