While the takeoff offers pleasant views of the Finger Lakes, the landing approach into Chicago provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with Lake Michigan and the downtown skyline. The landing views are more visually striking and memorable.
Flown SYR to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Syracuse to Chicago is 605 miles (974 km), a flight of about 1 hour 55 minutes.
Ohio landscape including Lake Erie's southern shore (visible from altitude during westbound flight), the Appalachian plateau terrain, and the transition from forested eastern regions to the flatter agricultural plains of Ohio and Indiana. The Great Lakes region provides the most notable geographic feature along the route.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SYR
LEFTLeft side offers views of Onondaga Lake and the Finger Lakes region as the aircraft climbs westward. Right side faces the Appalachian foothills with less dramatic relief.
Landing at ORD
RIGHTRight side provides views of Lake Michigan's shoreline and Chicago's downtown skyline during approach. Left side shows suburban sprawl with fewer distinctive visual landmarks.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Syracuse Hancock International (SYR) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Syracuse to Chicago. While the takeoff offers pleasant views of the Finger Lakes, the landing approach into Chicago provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with Lake Michigan and the downtown skyline. The landing views are more visually striking and memorable.
What can I see during takeoff from Syracuse Hancock International in Syracuse?
During takeoff from Syracuse Hancock International (SYR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of Onondaga Lake and the Finger Lakes region as the aircraft climbs westward. Right side faces the Appalachian foothills with less dramatic relief. Notable sights include: Onondaga Lake (immediately south of Syracuse), Skaneateles Lake and Owasco Lake (Finger Lakes chain to the southwest), Appalachian plateau terrain to the south.
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 views of Lake Michigan's shoreline and Chicago's downtown skyline during approach. Left side shows suburban sprawl with fewer distinctive visual landmarks. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (western shore and open water), Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, Chicago River and harbor district, suburban grid extending inland.
How long is the flight from Syracuse to Chicago?
The flight from Syracuse Hancock International (SYR) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 1 hour 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 605 miles (974 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Syracuse to Chicago flight path pass over?
Ohio landscape including Lake Erie's southern shore (visible from altitude during westbound flight), the Appalachian plateau terrain, and the transition from forested eastern regions to the flatter agricultural plains of Ohio and Indiana. The Great Lakes region provides the most notable geographic feature along the route.