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AZO โ DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Kalamazoo Battle Creek International Airport (Kalamazoo) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most consistent views of Michigan's landmarks, including the University of Michigan campus and a superior angle of the Detroit skyline on most approach patterns.
Western Michigan University
Immediately after takeoff, view the sprawling campus and Waldo Stadium on the west side of Kalamazoo.
Ann Arbor & The Big House
Clear views of the University of Michigan campus and the massive Michigan Stadium as the flight crosses Washtenaw County.
Detroit Skyline
If landing toward the east, the left side provides a panoramic view of the Renaissance Center and downtown Detroit.
Huron River Valley
Follow the winding path of the Huron River and its various chain of lakes as you descend toward the airport.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct solar glare. This side is also preferred for spotting the 'Big House' in Ann Arbor. During clear autumn days, the foliage change in the Huron River valley is spectacular from low altitudes.
Battle Creek
Look south to see the industrial landscape of 'Cereal City' and the Kelloggโs world headquarters shortly after departure.
Michigan International Speedway
The massive oval of the racetrack in the Irish Hills area is often visible to the south mid-flight.
Detroit River & Canada
During the final approach, see the international border, the Ambassador Bridge, and the shipping lanes of the Detroit River.
Western Lake Erie
On clear days, the shimmering waters of Lake Erie and the Monroe power plant stacks are visible to the southeast.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to have the sun behind you. It offers the best views of the Detroit River and the Canadian border if the plane enters a holding pattern or loops south over Lake Erie for landing.
Distance: 181 km (112 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 18 min
Departure: AZO (42.234901428222656, -85.5521011352539)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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