While takeoff offers dramatic mountain scenery, the landing approach provides more varied and iconic urban-plus-water views. Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline are more visually distinctive than desert terrain, making the left side the better overall choice for this route.
Flown TUS to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Tucson to Chicago is 1,435 miles (2,309 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Colorado Plateau and High Plains. Notable features include the Mogollon Rim (visible from central Arizona), the Rio Grande valley near Albuquerque, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains (far right, northern New Mexico), the Texas Panhandle's flat terrain, and the Oklahoma grasslands. The Arkansas River valley becomes visible approaching Kansas. No major bodies of water are crossed until Lake Michigan on approach to Chicago.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from TUS
RIGHTRight side offers immediate views of the Santa Catalina Mountains and the broader Tucson valley. The northeastbound departure from TUS climbs directly toward these peaks, making them prominent during the initial climb-out phase.
Landing at ORD
LEFTLeft side provides views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's downtown skyline during the final approach. ORD's standard approach from the southwest brings the lake and city center into view on the left side as altitude decreases.
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 Tucson International (TUS) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Tucson to Chicago. While takeoff offers dramatic mountain scenery, the landing approach provides more varied and iconic urban-plus-water views. Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline are more visually distinctive than desert terrain, making the left side the better overall choice for this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Tucson International in Tucson?
During takeoff from Tucson International (TUS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers immediate views of the Santa Catalina Mountains and the broader Tucson valley. The northeastbound departure from TUS climbs directly toward these peaks, making them prominent during the initial climb-out phase. Notable sights include: Santa Catalina Mountains, Tucson urban grid, Saguaro National Park East (distant), Rincon Mountains (far right horizon).
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 provides views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's downtown skyline during the final approach. ORD's standard approach from the southwest brings the lake and city center into view on the left side as altitude decreases. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan, Chicago downtown/Loop district, Chicago River, Des Plaines River valley.
How long is the flight from Tucson to Chicago?
The flight from Tucson International (TUS) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,435 miles (2,309 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Tucson to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Colorado Plateau and High Plains. Notable features include the Mogollon Rim (visible from central Arizona), the Rio Grande valley near Albuquerque, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains (far right, northern New Mexico), the Texas Panhandle's flat terrain, and the Oklahoma grasslands. The Arkansas River valley becomes visible approaching Kansas. No major bodies of water are crossed until Lake Michigan on approach to Chicago.