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DTW → RDU
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most dramatic views of the Appalachian ridgelines, the New River Gorge area, and iconic geological landmarks like Pilot Mountain during the descent into North Carolina.
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Detroit Skyline
Clear views of the Renaissance Center and the Detroit River immediately after takeoff.
New River Gorge
Look down for the dramatic deep canyon and the famous arch bridge in West Virginia.
Appalachian Ridges
Superior views of the rugged, folded mountain chains that define the eastern United States.
Pilot Mountain
The unmistakable isolated peak with its distinctive rounded knob near the NC border.
Uwharrie National Forest
Views of the ancient, rolling hills of the central North Carolina forest.
For the best experience, book a window seat on the right and look for the New River Gorge about 35-40 minutes into the flight. This side is especially spectacular in autumn (October-November) when the Appalachian foliage turns vibrant colors. During winter, snow-covered ridges highlight the unique geology of the ridge-and-valley province.
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Lake Erie Shoreline
Catch views of the Great Lake's southern coast and the city of Cleveland during the initial climb.
Monongahela National Forest
Expansive views of the dense, high-elevation forests of West Virginia.
Shenandoah Valley
Distant views of the historic valley tucked between the Blue Ridge and the Alleghenies.
Durham Cityscape
Views of the Research Triangle Park area and downtown Durham on the final approach.
The left side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. It provides a broad perspective of the eastern continental divide and the transition from the mountains to the Piedmont plateau. Keep an eye out for the distinct pattern of the Shenandoah's long, parallel ridges.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 807 km (501 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Route Type: Domestic
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