While the takeoff from Shannon offers coastal scenery, the landing approach into Chicago provides more dramatic and memorable views of Lake Michigan and the iconic skyline. The approach is longer and more visually rewarding than the brief Irish coastal climb.
Flown SNN to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Shannon to Chicago is 3,580 miles (5,762 km), a flight of about 7 hours 15 minutes.
The flight crosses the Atlantic Ocean with no significant landmarks visible for approximately 5 hours. The route typically passes south of Newfoundland and over the Canadian Maritime provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick visible on clear days), then crosses the Great Lakes region. The St. Lawrence River valley and the Appalachian Mountains may be visible on the southern portion of the route depending on exact flight path, but the Atlantic crossing dominates the middle segment with only open ocean visible.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SNN
LEFTLeft seats offer views of the River Shannon estuary and Galway Bay as the aircraft climbs westward over the Irish coast. Right seats face inland toward the Burren limestone plateau, which is less visually distinctive at altitude.
Landing at ORD
RIGHTRight seats provide views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline during the final approach from the east. Left seats face inland over the flat Illinois plains with fewer distinctive landmarks.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Shannon (SNN) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Shannon to Chicago. While the takeoff from Shannon offers coastal scenery, the landing approach into Chicago provides more dramatic and memorable views of Lake Michigan and the iconic skyline. The approach is longer and more visually rewarding than the brief Irish coastal climb.
What can I see during takeoff from Shannon in Shannon?
During takeoff from Shannon (SNN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left seats offer views of the River Shannon estuary and Galway Bay as the aircraft climbs westward over the Irish coast. Right seats face inland toward the Burren limestone plateau, which is less visually distinctive at altitude. Notable sights include: River Shannon estuary, Galway Bay, Aran Islands, Atlantic coastline.
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 seats provide views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline during the final approach from the east. Left seats face inland over the flat Illinois plains with fewer distinctive landmarks. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown skyline, Indiana Dunes, Illinois plains.
How long is the flight from Shannon to Chicago?
The flight from Shannon (SNN) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 7 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,580 miles (5,762 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Shannon to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Atlantic Ocean with no significant landmarks visible for approximately 5 hours. The route typically passes south of Newfoundland and over the Canadian Maritime provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick visible on clear days), then crosses the Great Lakes region. The St. Lawrence River valley and the Appalachian Mountains may be visible on the southern portion of the route depending on exact flight path, but the Atlantic crossing dominates the middle segment with only open ocean visible.