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DTW → CUN
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Cancún International Airport (Cancun)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the Florida Panhandle's emerald coastline and a breathtaking approach over the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, including views of Isla Mujeres and the Cancun Hotel Zone.
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Lake Erie Shoreline
Aerial views of the southern shores of Lake Erie and the industrial landscapes of northern Ohio shortly after departure.
Appalachian Plateau
The rolling, forested ridges of the Appalachian foothills through Kentucky and eastern Tennessee.
Emerald Coast
Stunning vistas of the sugar-white sands and teal waters near Destin and Panama City as you exit the US mainland.
Isla Mujeres
A clear view of the narrow island and its surrounding coral reefs during the final descent into Cancun.
Cancun Hotel Zone
The iconic '7' shaped sandbar lined with luxury resorts and the Nichupté Lagoon.
Sit on the left (Side A/C) for the best light during morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. This side is also preferred for the 'money shot' of the turquoise Caribbean water and Isla Mujeres during the standard approach from the north. Watch for the contrast between the deep blue Gulf and the shallow reefs near the Yucatan.
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Southern Hubs
Potential views of the urban sprawls of Nashville, Tennessee, and Birmingham, Alabama, depending on the specific air corridor.
Mobile Bay
The expansive wetlands and delta systems where the Mobile River meets the Gulf of Mexico.
Gulf Sunset
On late afternoon flights, this side provides a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets over the open water.
Yucatan Jungle
The dense, flat green canopy of the Yucatan Peninsula's inland forests as the plane crosses the coastline.
Shipping Lanes
Spotting cargo ships and tankers navigating the busy maritime routes of the Gulf of Mexico.
The right side (Side E/F) is ideal for sunset views on evening flights. While the mid-flight segment is mostly open ocean, the descent offers a unique view of the dense Mayan jungle and the sprawling city of Cancun itself. Be aware that the afternoon sun can be quite intense on this side of the aircraft.
Book Hotels in CancunDistance: 2,378 km (1,478 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 10 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Route Type: International
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