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BWI destination photo
GRR destination photo

BWIGRR

Our Recommendation
8.1

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.1
🌊

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

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.

Top Activities in Grand Rapids
Route Information

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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