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DTW → CLT
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior mountain vistas of the Allegheny Plateau and a spectacular final approach over Lake Norman into the Queen City.
Columbus Skyline
Catch a view of Ohio's capital city and the Scioto River valley as you head southward.
Allegheny Plateau
A breathtaking look at the deeply dissected plateau with its winding valleys and steep-sided hills.
Blue Ridge Mountains
See the iconic hazy blue horizon of the ancient mountain range during the mid-flight cruise.
Lake Norman
A highlight of the trip, offering stunning views of the massive lake and its many islands during the descent.
Charlotte Uptown
The right side frequently gets a clear view of the dense skyscraper cluster of downtown Charlotte just before landing.
The right side is best for afternoon flights to enjoy the golden hour light hitting the mountains. Ensure you have your camera ready for the Lake Norman approach, which is widely considered one of the most scenic landings in the region. Aim for a seat in front of or behind the wing for unobstructed ground views.
Lake Erie Coastline
View the southern shoreline and the industrial landscape of Cleveland as you depart the Great Lakes region.
Ohio River Meanders
Watch the winding Ohio River serve as the natural border between the states of Ohio and West Virginia.
Appalachian Ridges
Observe the distinctive parallel geological folds of the Ridge-and-Valley Province through West Virginia.
Monongahela Forest
Fly over the deep green expanse of one of the most rugged and remote national forests in the Eastern US.
Sit on the left for morning departures to avoid direct sunlight glare. This side is ideal for seeing the geometric patterns of Ohio farmland and the eastern ridges of the Appalachians. Watch for Pilot Mountain as you enter North Carolina.
Distance: 806 km (501 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Route Type: Domestic
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