Loading map...
DTW → RIC
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Richmond International Airport (Richmond)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior mix of urban landmarks and natural beauty, including the Detroit River at takeoff, the southern shore of Lake Erie, and a broader view of the Shenandoah Valley during the descent into Richmond.
Search flights from DTW to RIC
Detroit Skyline
Excellent views of the Detroit River and downtown skyline shortly after departure from DTW.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Vistas of the southern coast of Lake Erie, passing near Toledo and Cleveland.
Cleveland Waterfront
Clear sightlines of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Port of Cleveland on clear days.
Shenandoah National Park
Aerial views of the northern section of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley.
I-95 Corridor
As you descend, you can often see the bustling development of Northern Virginia and the Rappahannock River.
Book a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine glare and capture the best views of the Detroit skyline during takeoff. For evening flights, this side experiences less direct sun glare, providing better conditions for photography of the Appalachian ridges. If the flight path passes slightly north, you may even catch a glimpse of the Pittsburgh metropolitan area in the distance.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United States
Appalachian Plateau
Dense forest coverage and the rugged terrain of the Allegheny Mountains in Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Monongahela National Forest
Vast wilderness areas characterized by deep green ridges and winding river valleys.
Blue Ridge Ridges
Stunning views of the distinct parallel ridges of the Appalachian chain as you cross into Virginia.
James River
The winding James River becomes visible as the plane enters the Richmond terminal airspace.
The right side is ideal for nature lovers wanting to see the 'endless' forest of the Appalachian range. Morning flights are particularly beautiful on this side as the sun illuminates the eastern slopes of the mountains. During fall (October), the right side offers spectacular views of the changing foliage across the West Virginia and Virginia highlands. Watch for the 'V' shape of the New River Valley if the flight path tracks slightly westward.
Book Hotels in RichmondDistance: 734 km (456 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 13 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: RIC (37.50519943237305, -77.3197021484375)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.