Right side scores marginally higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Ozark plateau terrain and Springfield cityscape) and more engaging landing views (Lake Michigan, Chicago skyline, and suburban-to-urban transition). Left side offers only flat farmland on departure and open water on arrival, making it visually monotonous throughout the flight.
Flown SGF to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Springfield to Chicago is 438 miles (705 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Illinois farmland and prairie, Sangamon River valley, transition from Ozark plateau to Central Illinois plains, scattered lakes and reservoirs, small towns and agricultural grid pattern across central Illinois
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from SGF
RIGHTRight side captures the Ozark plateau terrain during climb-out from Runway 14. Passengers see rolling forested hills and the Springfield urban area receding below, providing immediate visual interest. Left side faces open farmland with minimal relief.
Landing at ORD
RIGHTRight side (north/northeast approach) offers views of Chicago's urban sprawl and Lake Michigan during descent. Passengers see the transition from Illinois farmland to suburban development, then the Chicago skyline and lakefront. Left side faces open water and lacks urban definition.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Springfield Branson National Airport (SGF) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Springfield to Chicago. Right side scores marginally higher due to superior takeoff scenery (Ozark plateau terrain and Springfield cityscape) and more engaging landing views (Lake Michigan, Chicago skyline, and suburban-to-urban transition). Left side offers only flat farmland on departure and open water on arrival, making it visually monotonous throughout the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Springfield Branson National Airport in Springfield?
During takeoff from Springfield Branson National Airport (SGF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Ozark plateau terrain during climb-out from Runway 14. Passengers see rolling forested hills and the Springfield urban area receding below, providing immediate visual interest. Left side faces open farmland with minimal relief. Notable sights include: Springfield city grid, Ozark plateau ridgelines to the southeast, Lake Springfield reservoir, forested valleys of the Ozark region.
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 (north/northeast approach) offers views of Chicago's urban sprawl and Lake Michigan during descent. Passengers see the transition from Illinois farmland to suburban development, then the Chicago skyline and lakefront. Left side faces open water and lacks urban definition. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, suburban Chicago development grid, Des Plaines River valley.
How long is the flight from Springfield to Chicago?
The flight from Springfield Branson National Airport (SGF) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 438 miles (705 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Springfield to Chicago flight path pass over?
Illinois farmland and prairie, Sangamon River valley, transition from Ozark plateau to Central Illinois plains, scattered lakes and reservoirs, small towns and agricultural grid pattern across central Illinois