Loading map...
DTW → ROC
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Greater Rochester International Airport (Rochester)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most scenic entry into Western New York, offering expansive views of Lake St. Clair, the Ontario peninsula, and the vast expanse of Lake Ontario during the descent into Rochester.
Detroit River & Belle Isle
Shortly after takeoff, catch a glimpse of the Detroit riverfront and the lush greenery of Belle Isle Park.
Lake St. Clair
View the turquoise waters of Lake St. Clair as the aircraft turns east toward Canada.
Ontario Farmland
Fly over the neatly patterned agricultural grids of Southern Ontario, particularly the London and Woodstock areas.
Niagara Peninsula
As you approach the border, see the dense vineyards and orchards that define this rich agricultural region.
Lake Ontario Shoreline
Enjoy a dramatic view of the southern shore of Lake Ontario as the plane begins its final descent into ROC.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. On clear days, you may catch a distant glimpse of the Toronto skyline across Lake Ontario to the north. Morning flights offer the best lighting as the sun rises in the east, illuminating the lakeshores below.
Downtown Detroit
An excellent view of the Renaissance Center and the Detroit skyline during the initial climb.
Western Lake Erie
See the various islands dotting western Lake Erie, including Grosse Ile and Bois Blanc.
Port of Erieau
Observe the unique sandspit of Rondeau Provincial Park reaching into Lake Erie from the Ontario side.
Buffalo Skyline
On the standard approach path, the city of Buffalo and the start of the Niagara River are visible to the south.
Genesee River Valley
During the final approach into Rochester, watch for the winding Genesee River carving through the landscape.
The right side is ideal for capturing the Detroit skyline immediately after takeoff. For evening flights, this side will experience the direct glare of the setting sun, so keep your window shade ready. Look for the distinct urban grid of Buffalo just before the descent into the Genesee Valley region.
Distance: 475 km (295 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 48 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: ROC (43.118900299072266, -77.67240142822266)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.