While takeoff offers good scenery, the landing approach into Chicago provides superior views of Lake Michigan and the city's dramatic skyline. The left side captures both the natural landmark of the lake and the urban geometry of one of North America's most distinctive cities.
Flown YOW to ORD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Ottawa to Chicago is 653 miles (1,051 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Great Lakes region. Notable features include: Lake Ontario's southern shore (visible during the initial southwestward climb from Ottawa), the Niagara Escarpment and surrounding Ontario landscape, the transition into Michigan's Lower Peninsula with its lakes and forests, and eventually the approach to Lake Michigan from the northeast. The terrain transitions from the Canadian Shield's rocky, forested landscape to the Great Lakes basin's flatter, more developed terrain.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from YOW
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills as you climb southwestward. The river's distinctive meanders and the forested ridge of the Canadian Shield provide immediate visual interest during the initial climb-out.
Landing at ORD
LEFTLeft-side seats offer views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's downtown skyline during the approach from the northeast. The lake's expanse and the distinctive urban geometry of the Loop provide compelling visual landmarks as you descend toward ORD.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Ottawa to Chicago. While takeoff offers good scenery, the landing approach into Chicago provides superior views of Lake Michigan and the city's dramatic skyline. The left side captures both the natural landmark of the lake and the urban geometry of one of North America's most distinctive cities.
What can I see during takeoff from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International in Ottawa?
During takeoff from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills as you climb southwestward. The river's distinctive meanders and the forested ridge of the Canadian Shield provide immediate visual interest during the initial climb-out. Notable sights include: Ottawa River (winding through the city), Gatineau Hills (forested ridge to the north), downtown Ottawa's Parliament Hill area, Rideau Canal.
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 offer views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's downtown skyline during the approach from the northeast. The lake's expanse and the distinctive urban geometry of the Loop provide compelling visual landmarks as you descend toward ORD. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (massive freshwater body), Chicago downtown/The Loop (grid of tall buildings), Chicago River, Des Plaines River valley.
How long is the flight from Ottawa to Chicago?
The flight from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International (YOW) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 653 miles (1,051 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Ottawa to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Great Lakes region. Notable features include: Lake Ontario's southern shore (visible during the initial southwestward climb from Ottawa), the Niagara Escarpment and surrounding Ontario landscape, the transition into Michigan's Lower Peninsula with its lakes and forests, and eventually the approach to Lake Michigan from the northeast. The terrain transitions from the Canadian Shield's rocky, forested landscape to the Great Lakes basin's flatter, more developed terrain.