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ATW → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Appleton International Airport (Appleton) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this short hop, offering the best chance to see the Appleton cityscape at takeoff and the iconic Detroit skyline and Ambassador Bridge during the landing sequence, especially on a northern approach.
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Fox Cities & Appleton
Excellent views of the Fox River and the downtown Appleton area immediately following takeoff from ATW.
Lake Michigan Crossing
A vast expanse of deep blue water as the plane crosses the lake between Wisconsin and Michigan's Lower Peninsula.
Manistee Shoreline
The lush, forested coastline of the Manistee National Forest becomes visible as you reach the Michigan side.
Saginaw Bay
On clear days, the distant waters of Saginaw Bay can be spotted to the northeast as you traverse central Michigan.
Detroit Skyline
A prime view of the Renaissance Center and the Detroit River border during the descent into DTW.
Sit on the left for the best morning light; the sun will be behind the aircraft, reducing glare on the window while photographing Lake Michigan. Look for the distinct curve of the Michigan coastline near Ludington as you cross the water. If the flight arrives from the north, you will have a direct view of the Canadian border.
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Lake Winnebago
Wisconsin's largest inland lake is prominently visible to the south shortly after departure from Appleton.
Grand Rapids
The urban layout of Michigan's second-largest city can often be seen mid-flight.
Michigan Heartland
Geometric patterns of vast agricultural fields that define the landscape of southern Michigan.
Ann Arbor
Home to the University of Michigan; look for the massive 'Big House' stadium during the final descent.
Metro Detroit Suburbs
The sprawling residential grid of the western Detroit suburbs provides a sense of the region's scale.
The right side is ideal for seeing Lake Winnebago right after takeoff. On afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, which can create high contrast but offers a beautiful 'golden hour' glow over the Michigan farmlands. During winter, look for ice formations along the shores of Lake Winnebago and Lake Michigan.
Book Hotels in DetroitDistance: 476 km (296 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 48 min
Departure: ATW (44.258098602299995, -88.51909637450001)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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