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DTW → MLI
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Quad City International Airport (Moline)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the Chicago skyline across Lake Michigan, the expansive Great Lakes coastline, and a more direct view of the Mississippi River valley during the descent into Moline.
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Detroit Skyline
View the Renaissance Center and the Detroit River separating the US from Windsor, Canada, upon takeoff.
Lake Michigan
Experience the vast, ocean-like scale of Lake Michigan as the flight crosses the southern basin.
Chicago Skyline
On clear days, the iconic Willis Tower and lakefront skyscrapers are visible to the south across the water.
O'Hare Corridor
Spot the sprawling complex of O'Hare International Airport and the dense suburban infrastructure of northern Chicago.
Mississippi River
A stunning view of the great Mississippi River and the Rock River confluence just before landing at MLI.
The right side is the clear winner for landmark spotting. Try to book a window seat away from the wing to get the best angle of the Chicago skyline. For evening flights, the city lights of the Chicago metropolitan area create a spectacular glowing grid visible for miles.
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Ann Arbor
Catch a glimpse of the University of Michigan campus and the massive 'Big House' stadium shortly after departure.
Midwestern Heartland
Observe the intricate, colorful quilt-like patterns of the Indiana and Illinois agricultural grid.
Illinois River
Watch the winding Illinois River cut through the landscape as you approach Western Illinois.
Starved Rock Region
Dense forest patches and unique sandstone bluffs visible near the southern bend of the Illinois River.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during late afternoon flights to avoid the direct western sun. This side is better for observing the geometric beauty of the heartland's farm fields, which look particularly vibrant during the spring and fall planting/harvest seasons.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 599 km (372 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: MLI (41.44850158691406, -90.50749969482422)
Route Type: Domestic
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