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CWA → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Central Wisconsin Airport (Wassau) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the scenic Door Peninsula and the expansive views of Lake Michigan, with a better chance of seeing the Detroit skyline during the northern arrival pattern.
Rib Mountain
Visible shortly after takeoff from CWA, this ancient geological formation rises prominently above the Wisconsin landscape.
Door Peninsula
On a clear day, the distinctive 'thumb' of Wisconsin and the waters of Green Bay are visible to the north.
Central Lake Michigan
A vast blue expanse that showcases the scale of the Great Lakes, often dotted with cargo freighters.
Detroit Skyline
The Renaissance Center and downtown core are often visible on the left during the final approach from the north.
Saginaw Bay
The large bay of Lake Huron can be seen in the distance as the flight crosses into the Lower Peninsula.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Wisconsin coastline and the northern Michigan landscape. For evening flights, this side avoids the direct glare of the sun, making it easier to spot the Detroit city lights on descent.
Lake Winnebago
Wisconsin's largest inland lake is visible to the south as the aircraft tracks toward the lakefront.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Striking white sand dunes along the Michigan shoreline are visible as the flight makes landfall.
Grand Rapids
The urban sprawl and skyscrapers of Western Michigan's largest city can be seen mid-flight.
Michigan Stadium
Known as 'The Big House' in Ann Arbor, this massive stadium is a landmark feature during the descent into DTW.
Huron River
The winding river through Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti provides a scenic natural boundary just west of the airport.
The right side is ideal for catching the sunset on late afternoon flights. Keep an eye out for the distinctive circular shape of Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor roughly 10-15 minutes before landing. Avoid seats directly over the wing for the clearest views of the sand dunes.
Distance: 583 km (362 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 58 min
Departure: CWA (44.7775993347, -89.6668014526)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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