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DTW → ILG
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to New Castle Airport (Wilmington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Philadelphia skyline and the broad Delaware River during the final descent, alongside iconic views of the Detroit skyline during takeoff.
Detroit Skyline
Catch a glimpse of the Renaissance Center and the Detroit River shortly after departure from DTW.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Views of the western basin and the industrial coastlines of Michigan and Ohio.
Allegheny Plateau
Deeply dissected plateaus and dense forest cover as you transit central Pennsylvania.
Susquehanna River
The massive, shallow river crossing near Harrisburg with its many historic bridges.
Philadelphia Skyline
The city's skyscrapers are often clearly visible to the northeast during the descent into Wilmington.
Delaware River Ports
Vibrant industrial activity and large cargo ships moving toward the Atlantic.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. As you approach ILG, keep your eyes north to spot the Philadelphia skyline. In autumn, this side provides spectacular views of the changing foliage over the Pennsylvania Wilds.
Ohio Farmlands
The characteristic geometric grid patterns of the American Midwest during the first half of the flight.
Appalachian Ridges
Long, linear mountain ridges stretching toward West Virginia and Maryland.
Lancaster County
The distinctive quilt-like agricultural patterns of Pennsylvania's Dutch Country.
Delaware Memorial Bridge
A stunning view of the twin suspension spans connecting Delaware and New Jersey on final approach.
The right side is best for late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Appalachian mountains. Look for the winding path of the Christiana River as you make your final turn into New Castle Airport.
Distance: 709 km (441 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 11 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: ILG (39.67869949, -75.60649872)
Route Type: Domestic
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