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BWI → GRR
Which side of the plane to sit from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (Baltimore) to Gerald R. Ford International Airport (Grand Rapids)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers the most dramatic transition from the Appalachian foothills to the vast, shimmering expanse of Lake Erie, providing a clear view of the Ohio shoreline and the approach into western Michigan's river valleys.
Lake Erie Horizon
Expansive views of the Great Lake, showcasing the dramatic scale of the freshwater sea against the Ohio coastline.
Cleveland Waterfront
Clear views of the Lake Erie shoreline, including the downtown skyline and the distinctive Rock and Roll Hall of Fame building.
Lake St. Clair
The turquoise waters of Lake St. Clair and the Detroit River system are visible as the plane nears the Michigan thumb.
Grand River Basin
The winding path of the Grand River through the forests and suburbs of western Michigan during the final approach.
The right side is the 'water side' for this route. Afternoon and sunset flights are particularly stunning as the sun reflects off the surface of Lake Erie. For the best view of the Grand Rapids area on arrival, choose a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze.
Baltimore & Inner Harbor
Aerial perspective of the Patapsco River and the urban density of Baltimore during the initial climb out of BWI.
Appalachian Ridges
Striking views of the linear ridges and valleys of western Maryland and southern Pennsylvania.
Pittsburgh Confluence
The meeting point of the Monongahela, Allegheny, and Ohio rivers in downtown Pittsburgh is often visible to the south.
Ann Arbor
Look for the massive 'Big House' stadium and the University of Michigan campus during the cross-state transit.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the southern sun. This side is superior for spotting major metropolitan centers like Pittsburgh and the collegiate sprawl of Ann Arbor during the descent.
Distance: 849 km (528 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)
Arrival: GRR (42.88079834, -85.52279663)
Route Type: Domestic
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