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DTW destination photo
MCO destination photo

DTWMCO

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer scenic views of the Appalachian range, the right side is preferred for its views of the Detroit skyline upon departure and the potential to spot Orlando's world-famous theme parks during the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Detroit Skyline

Excellent views of the Renaissance Center and the downtown core if taking off toward the north or east.

🌫️

Smoky Mountains

Far-off vistas of the hazy Great Smoky Mountains as the plane crosses over the Tennessee-North Carolina border region.

💧

Central Florida Lakes

An incredible view of the thousands of circular sinkhole lakes that dot the landscape of Central Florida.

🏰

Walt Disney World

During the final descent into MCO, look for the iconic structures of Epcot, Magic Kingdom, and Animal Kingdom.

Choose the right side for sunset views on late afternoon flights. Keep your camera ready during the last 15 minutes of the flight; depending on the wind direction, the plane often circles right over the theme park corridor.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Lake Erie

Aerial view of the western basin of Lake Erie and the mouth of the Detroit River shortly after takeoff.

⛰️

Blue Ridge Mountains

Dramatic views of the eastern Appalachian ridges stretching across Virginia and North Carolina.

🏖️

Atlantic Coastline

Distant views of the winding Atlantic coast and the barrier islands of South Carolina and Georgia.

🚀

St. Johns River

The massive north-flowing river that snakes through the Florida landscape toward Jacksonville.

Sit on the left for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise over the Atlantic horizon. During descent, look for the Cape Canaveral launch pads if the pilot takes a more easterly routing.

Top Activities in Orlando
Route Information

Distance: 1,544 km (959 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 4 min

Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)

Arrival: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)

Route Type: Domestic

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