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DTW → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the Great Lakes, the iconic Chicago skyline, and the surreal landscapes of the Great Salt Lake and the Hollywood Hills during descent.
Search flights from DTW to LAX
Lake Michigan
Clear views of the blue expanse and the western Michigan coastline shortly after takeoff.
Chicago Loop
An incredible perspective of the Willis Tower and the downtown skyscrapers as you cross the lake.
Front Range
The dramatic rise of the Rocky Mountains near Denver, often capped with snow through late spring.
Great Salt Lake
The striking turquoise and silver colors of the salt-crusted lake beds and the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Hollywood Hills
During the standard approach into LAX, look for the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and the Santa Monica coast.
The right side is ideal for morning departures from Detroit, as the sun will be on the opposite side of the plane, providing perfect lighting for photography. On the final approach into LAX, this side usually looks north over the city's most famous landmarks.
Book Hotels in Los AngelesChicago South Side
A sprawling view of the southern metropolitan area and the industrial shoreline of Lake Michigan.
Kansas Plains
Vast stretches of center-pivot irrigation circles creating green and gold geometric patterns across the landscape.
Southern Rockies
Stunning views of the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the southern Colorado peaks.
Painted Desert
The vibrant, multi-colored rock formations of northern Arizona visible if the flight path dips south.
Mojave Desert
Deep desert canyons and dry lake beds leading into the San Bernardino Mountains.
The left side faces south, which can result in significant sun glare during midday flights. Choose this side for potential views of the Grand Canyon on more southerly routes, but keep the window shade partially down to manage the heat.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 3,178 km (1,975 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 44 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
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