Loading map...
BHM → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (Birmingham) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Ohio River valley, the scenic Bluegrass region of Kentucky, and a higher probability of seeing the Detroit skyline and the Detroit River during the final approach.
Search flights from BHM to DTW
Appalachian Foothills
The eastern horizon features the rising terrain of the Appalachian plateau as you head north.
Kentucky Bluegrass
Aerial views of the famous horse farms and white-fenced estates near Lexington, Kentucky.
Cincinnati & Ohio River
A prime view of the winding Ohio River and the dense urban core of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
Lake Erie Islands
On clear days, you may see the Western Basin of Lake Erie, including the Bass Islands and Cedar Point to the east.
Detroit River
The international border between the US and Canada, with views of heavy freighter traffic.
Detroit Skyline
On many approaches to DTW, this side offers the best look at the Renaissance Center and downtown Detroit.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon or evening flights to avoid direct sunlight. Pay close attention during the descent; if the wind is from the north, you will likely fly past downtown Detroit, providing an iconic view of the city and the Ambassador Bridge. Seasonal tip: autumn flights offer stunning foliage views over the Kentucky horse country.
Book Hotels in DetroitDowntown Birmingham
Excellent views of the Magic City's skyline and the Sloss Furnaces shortly after takeoff from BHM.
Tennessee River
Crossing the wide expanse of the Tennessee River and Wheeler Lake near the Alabama-Tennessee border.
Nashville Basin
Vistas of the rolling hills surrounding Middle Tennessee and the sprawling Nashville metropolitan area.
Bourbon Country
Overlooking the lush, green landscapes of central Kentucky, home to many historic distilleries.
Dayton, Ohio
Views of the Miami Valley and the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, a significant landmark in aviation history.
Maumee River
Observing the river's path through Toledo just before crossing into Michigan territory.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, reducing glare for photography. This side is also excellent for spotting the transition from the Appalachian foothills into the flat plains of the Midwest. Watch for the distinctive patterns of agricultural fields as you enter Ohio.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,007 km (626 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: BHM (33.56290054, -86.75350189)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.