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DTW → MSN
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Dane County Regional Truax Field (Madison)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides superior views of the University of Michigan, the Milwaukee skyline across Lake Michigan, and the iconic Madison isthmus and State Capitol during the final approach.
Ann Arbor
Spot the University of Michigan campus and the distinctive 'Big House' stadium shortly after departing Detroit.
Kalamazoo Valley
A view of the lush, green river valleys and agricultural patches of southwestern Michigan.
Lake Michigan (South)
Cross the southern basin of the lake, often seeing shipping vessels and the deep blue water transition to the Wisconsin coast.
Milwaukee Waterfront
Get a clear line of sight to the Milwaukee skyline and the white wings of the Art Museum as you fly past the city.
Madison Isthmus
The premier view of the Wisconsin State Capitol building centered perfectly between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.
Opt for the left side on evening flights to enjoy the sunset reflecting off the Great Lakes. Keep your window shade open during the final 10 minutes of flight as the descent over the Madison lakes is one of the most scenic in the Midwest.
Grand Rapids
See the urban layout of West Michigan's largest city and the winding path of the Grand River.
Lake Michigan (North)
Views of the wider, more open waters of the lake looking toward the northern Michigan coastline.
Wisconsin Lakeshore
Observe the sandy bluffs and state parks of the Wisconsin coast north of the major urban centers.
Glacial Landscapes
Look for the 'kettle' lakes and rolling moraines created by receding glaciers throughout eastern Wisconsin.
Lake Mendota North
A great view of the northern wetlands and the expansive surface area of Madison's largest lake upon approach.
The right side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun glare. In winter, look for the unique ice patterns forming along the Michigan and Wisconsin shorelines which are often more visible from this side.
Distance: 500 km (311 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 50 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: MSN (43.13990020751953, -89.3375015258789)
Route Type: Domestic
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