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DTW → SAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to San Diego International Airport (San Diego)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Southern Rocky Mountains and the Grand Canyon, culminating in a spectacular scenic descent over the Anza-Borrego desert and San Diego city skyline.
Southern Rockies
Breathtaking views of the high peaks in Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico, including Pikes Peak.
Grand Canyon
One of the world's most famous natural wonders is often visible to the north as you cross through Arizona.
Anza-Borrego Desert
Dramatic badlands and rugged desert terrain as the aircraft begins its descent into the Southern California mountains.
Cuyamaca Mountains
Lush, forested peaks that mark the final transition from the high desert into the San Diego basin.
Downtown San Diego
A legendary low-altitude pass over the downtown skyscrapers right before touching down at Lindbergh Field.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind you or to the south, illuminating the canyons and mountains perfectly. Watch for the Grand Canyon approximately 50-60 minutes before landing. Ensure you are behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the famous steep descent past the downtown high-rises.
St. Louis Skyline
A southern route provides a distant view of the Gateway Arch and the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers.
White Sands
On clear days, the brilliant white gypsum dunes of New Mexico are visible reflecting sunlight in the distance.
Salton Sea
A large, shallow saline rift lake located in the California desert near the Imperial Valley.
Mexican Border
The stark visual contrast between the urban density of Tijuana and the San Diego suburbs along the international boundary.
Balboa Park
During the final seconds of the descent, look for the California Tower and lush greenery of the park's museums.
Sit on the left for better views of the US-Mexico border during the final approach. This side is also better for early morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun reflecting off the wing.
Distance: 3,142 km (1,952 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 42 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Route Type: Domestic
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