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DTW → ELM
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Elmira Corning Regional Airport (Elmira)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the glacial Finger Lakes and the northern reaches of Lake Erie, providing a more dramatic landscape during the descent into the Southern Tier.
Lake Erie North Shore
Panoramic views of the Canadian shoreline and the western basin islands shortly after takeoff from Detroit.
Niagara Falls Distance
On clear days, the distant mist of Niagara Falls and the Niagara River can be spotted to the far north.
Finger Lakes Region
Stunning aerial perspectives of Canandaigua, Keuka, and Seneca Lakes as the plane begins its descent.
Rochester Skyline
Distal views of Rochester and the sprawling suburbs near the Lake Ontario coast.
Sit on the left for the best light during afternoon flights, as the sun will be behind you. This side is particularly spectacular in late September and October when the vineyards and forests around the Finger Lakes change color. Look for the distinct 'Y' shape of Keuka Lake about 15 minutes before landing.
Lake Erie South Shore
Views of the Ohio and Pennsylvania coastlines, stretching toward the city of Erie.
Allegheny Plateau
The landscape shifts from flat plains to the rolling, forested hills of the northern Appalachian plateau.
Seneca Lake South
A close-up view of the southern tip of Seneca Lake and the Watkins Glen area during the final approach.
Corning Glass Works
Aerial view of the Chemung River valley and the industrial landmarks of the Corning area just before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for spotting the transition into the mountainous terrain of the Southern Tier. During winter flights, this side often provides better views of the snow-covered Allegheny forests. Keep an eye out for the deep gorges near Watkins Glen as the plane aligns for the runway at ELM.
Distance: 532 km (331 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 53 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: ELM (42.1599006652832, -76.8916015625)
Route Type: Domestic
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