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DTW → CHS
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Charleston Air Force Base-International Airport (Charleston)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Lake Erie shoreline upon departure and the iconic Charleston coastline, harbor, and Ravenel Bridge during the final approach.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Visible shortly after takeoff from DTW, providing a clear view of the water and the industrial coast of Ohio.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Dramatic views of the rolling Appalachian peaks as you cross from West Virginia into Virginia and North Carolina.
Pisgah National Forest
Expansive views of the dense evergreen canopies of the North Carolina wilderness.
Lowcountry Coastline
As the plane descends, the Atlantic Ocean and the barrier islands of South Carolina come into view.
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
A stunning landmark view of the cable-stayed bridge and Charleston Harbor during the final descent into CHS.
Sit on the left (port side) for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. Look out early for the Lake Erie coastline and keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of the flight for the best views of the Cooper River and the harbor. If the plane lands from the north, this side provides the best view of the historic downtown area.
Ohio River Valley
The winding path of the Ohio River provides a geographic landmark early in the cruise phase.
Appalachian Plateau
Rugged terrain and deep river valleys throughout West Virginia offer textured landscape views.
Charlotte Metro Area
Depending on the flight path, the skyline of Charlotte, NC, is often visible in the distance to the west.
Congaree River Basin
The lush, swampy wetlands of central South Carolina are visible as you head toward the coast.
Ashley River Marshes
Intricate patterns of saltwater marshes and winding tidal creeks during the landing approach.
Choose the right side for afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the Appalachian range. This side is better for observing the inland geography and the vast agricultural patterns of the Carolinas. During the final approach, watch for the winding Ashley River and the sprawling plantation lands north of the city.
Distance: 1,076 km (669 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: CHS (32.89860153, -80.04049683)
Route Type: Domestic
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