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DTW → MEX
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Licenciado Benito Juarez International Airport (Mexico City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route primarily due to the spectacular approach into Mexico City, offering the best chance to see the iconic active volcanoes Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl.
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Lake Erie
Immediate views of the Great Lakes and the shoreline of Ohio shortly after departure from Detroit.
Cincinnati & Ohio River
A frequent waypoint providing a clear look at the winding Ohio River and the skyline of the Queen City.
Ozark National Forest
Bird's-eye view of the dense, rolling hills and deep valleys of the Arkansas highlands.
Popocatépetl & Iztaccíhuatl
The crown jewel of the flight: massive, often snow-capped volcanoes visible during the descent into the Valley of Mexico.
Nezahualcóyotl Grid
The mesmerizingly dense and symmetrical urban planning of Mexico City's eastern suburbs during final approach.
For the best experience, book a morning flight to avoid the afternoon haze and smog that can obscure the volcanoes. Seat yourself well ahead of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the peaks as the plane banks for its final approach. If flying in winter, the volcanoes will be heavily capped in snow, providing a stunning contrast to the city below.
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Mississippi River
A crossing of the United States' largest river system, typically near the mid-point of the domestic leg.
Dallas-Fort Worth
Clear views of the massive North Texas metroplex and its unique hub-and-spoke highway systems.
Sierra Madre Oriental
Rugged, jagged limestone mountain ranges that dominate the landscape as you enter Mexican airspace.
Paseo de la Reforma
Views of Mexico City's central business district and tallest skyscrapers if the plane approaches from the north.
Historic Center
The sprawling Zócalo area and the massive Metropolitan Cathedral are often visible just before touchdown.
On southbound flights during the afternoon, the right side will experience significant sun glare; keep your window shade down during the mid-flight cruise to stay cool. However, the right side offers a superior view of the sprawling urban density of central Mexico City just seconds before landing. Watch for the 'Nevado de Toluca' volcano in the far distance to the west.
Book Hotels in Mexico CityDistance: 2,933 km (1,822 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 55 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: MEX (19.4363, -99.072098)
Route Type: International
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