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DTW → JAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Jacksonville International Airport (Jacksonville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior approach into Jacksonville, providing sweeping views of the Atlantic coastline and the intricate winding of the St. Johns River during the descent.
Lake Erie Shoreline
After takeoff, catch views of the western basin of Lake Erie and the industrial corridors of the Toledo area.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Cross over the rolling ridges of the Appalachian chain, offering deep green forest vistas in summer or vibrant colors in autumn.
Charlotte Skyline
Direct views of the 'Queen City' and its distinct uptown skyscrapers are often visible as you transit through North Carolina.
St. Johns River
As you descend into JAX, observe the massive, north-flowing St. Johns River as it snakes toward the Atlantic.
First Coast Beaches
Stunning views of Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, and the Atlantic horizon during the final approach phase.
Sit on the left (Port) side for the best lighting during afternoon flights, as the sun will be on the opposite side. Look out for the transition from the rugged Appalachians to the flat, watery landscape of the Lowcountry. During landing, this side typically sees the coastal marshes of the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve.
Detroit Skyline
Excellent views of the Renaissance Center and the Detroit-Windsor border shortly after departure from DTW.
Ohio River Valley
Aerial perspective of the winding Ohio River and the industrial towns nestled in the river valley.
Appalachian Plateau
View the dramatic topography of West Virginia's coal country and deeply incised river gorges.
Lake Lanier
Pass west of this massive reservoir in North Georgia, a major landmark before the terrain flattens into the coastal plain.
Okefenokee Swamp
Near the Florida-Georgia line, look for the dark, tea-colored waters and dense cypress canopies of this prehistoric wetland.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the sunrise glare. It provides the best view of Detroit's urban sprawl immediately after takeoff. If the flight path takes a more westerly route, you may see the outskirts of Atlanta. Watch for the dramatic change in soil color from the red clay of Georgia to the sandy whites of Northern Florida.
Distance: 1,311 km (815 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 45 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: JAX (30.49410057067871, -81.68789672851562)
Route Type: Domestic
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