Loading map...
BUF → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (Buffalo) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a continuous view of the southern Lake Erie shoreline, featuring the urban skylines of Erie and Cleveland, as well as the iconic Cedar Point peninsula.
Search flights from BUF to DTW
Buffalo Waterfront
Immediate views of the Buffalo Outer Harbor, Canalside, and the historic lighthouse upon departure.
Presque Isle State Park
The unique, arched sand spit of Erie, Pennsylvania, extending significantly into the lake.
Cleveland Skyline
Clear views of the Terminal Tower, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the Lake Erie coastline.
Cedar Point
The famous 'Roller Coaster Capital of the World' is easily identifiable on its narrow peninsula near Sandusky.
Detroit River Islands
As the plane descends, look for Grosse Ile and the industrial architecture of the lower Detroit River.
Sit on the left for evening flights to catch the sunset reflecting off Lake Erie. This side provides a more consistent sequence of urban landmarks. On clear days, you can see the distinct transition from the industrial rust belt to the natural Great Lakes coastline.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United States
Niagara River
Views of the river and Grand Island shortly after takeoff from Buffalo.
Long Point
A massive, environmentally sensitive sand spit extending far into Lake Erie from the Ontario shore.
Point Pelee
The southernmost point of mainland Canada, recognizable by its sharp, triangular forest shape.
Detroit-Windsor Skyline
If the flight path enters from the north, you will see the Renaissance Center and the Ambassador Bridge.
Lake St. Clair
The heart-shaped lake connecting the St. Clair River and the Detroit River is often visible during the final descent.
The right side is best for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. It offers a more natural, less developed view of the Ontario coastline. Watch for the 'V' shape of Point Pelee, which is a major landmark for pilots and a stunning geographic feature from the air.
Book Hotels in DetroitDistance: 387 km (240 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 39 min
Departure: BUF (42.94049835, -78.73220062)
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.