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DTW → MQT
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Sawyer International Airport (Gwinn)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for Michigan's most iconic landmarks, including the Mackinac Bridge, Mackinac Island, and the expansive shores of Lake Superior as you approach the Upper Peninsula.
Detroit Skyline
Excellent views of the Renaissance Center and the Detroit River immediately after takeoff from DTW.
Houghton and Higgins Lakes
Two of Michigan's most beautiful inland turquoise lakes located in the center of the state.
The Mackinac Bridge
The 'Mighty Mac' is often visible spanning the 5-mile gap between the Lower and Upper Peninsulas.
Mackinac Island
Spot the historic Grand Hotel and the car-free island nestled in the Straits of Mackinac.
Lake Superior Shoreline
The deep blue, cold waters of the largest Great Lake appear as you descend into the Marquette area.
Marquette Iron Ore Docks
View the massive industrial structures of the Upper Peninsula's largest city during final approach.
Sit on the right for the iconic Michigan 'Great Lakes' experience. The best landmarks appear roughly 35 to 45 minutes into the flight. For the best photos of the Mackinac Bridge, a window seat behind the wing is recommended to avoid engine heat blur.
Metro Detroit Suburbs
View the sprawling residential layout and the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor shortly after departure.
Lake Michigan Coastline
Catch glimpses of the sandy bluffs and dunes of the western Lower Peninsula in the distance.
Big Bay de Noc
As you cross into the Upper Peninsula, see the northernmost inlets of Lake Michigan near Escanaba.
Hiawatha National Forest
Endless canopies of dense northern hardwoods and evergreens stretching toward the horizon.
The left side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Great Lakes. During the winter, this side provides excellent views of the ice shelf formations along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Distance: 562 km (349 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 56 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: MQT (46.3535995483, -87.39540100100001)
Route Type: Domestic
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