The takeoff views from San Salvador's volcanic landscape are more visually distinctive and geographically dramatic than the landing approach. While Chicago's Lake Michigan approach is scenic, the Central American highlands offer more varied and striking natural features during departure.
Flown SAL to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
San Salvador to Chicago is 1,973 miles (3,175 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Yucatan Peninsula (visible as low-lying jungle terrain with cenotes and limestone features), then passes over the Gulf of Mexico with occasional views of the Yucatan Channel. As the aircraft moves north over the continental United States, the Mississippi River valley becomes visible, followed by the transition to the Great Plains and eventually the Great Lakes region. The Appalachian foothills may be visible on the eastern horizon during the northern portion of the flight.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SAL
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the volcanic highlands immediately surrounding San Salvador. The airport sits in a valley, and climbing out to the north/northwest reveals the Central American cordillera with multiple volcanic peaks visible in succession.
Landing at ORD
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the approach into Chicago. The descent path from the northeast brings Lake Michigan into full view on the left, with the downtown Chicago skyline and surrounding urban grid visible ahead and to the right.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from El Salvador International (SAL) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from San Salvador to Chicago. The takeoff views from San Salvador's volcanic landscape are more visually distinctive and geographically dramatic than the landing approach. While Chicago's Lake Michigan approach is scenic, the Central American highlands offer more varied and striking natural features during departure.
What can I see during takeoff from El Salvador International in San Salvador?
During takeoff from El Salvador International (SAL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the volcanic highlands immediately surrounding San Salvador. The airport sits in a valley, and climbing out to the north/northwest reveals the Central American cordillera with multiple volcanic peaks visible in succession. Notable sights include: San Salvador volcano (2,422 m, directly visible on climb-out), Lake Ilopango (large crater lake east of the city), Santa Ana volcano (2,365 m, visible to the west during initial climb), Cerro Verde volcanic complex.
What can I see when landing at Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
When landing at Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the approach into Chicago. The descent path from the northeast brings Lake Michigan into full view on the left, with the downtown Chicago skyline and surrounding urban grid visible ahead and to the right. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (massive freshwater body dominating the left side), Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, Lake Shore Drive and coastal development, suburban sprawl extending west toward the horizon.
How long is the flight from San Salvador to Chicago?
The flight from El Salvador International (SAL) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,973 miles (3,175 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the San Salvador to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Yucatan Peninsula (visible as low-lying jungle terrain with cenotes and limestone features), then passes over the Gulf of Mexico with occasional views of the Yucatan Channel. As the aircraft moves north over the continental United States, the Mississippi River valley becomes visible, followed by the transition to the Great Plains and eventually the Great Lakes region. The Appalachian foothills may be visible on the eastern horizon during the northern portion of the flight.