Loading map...
DTW → TPA
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Tampa International Airport (Tampa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Ohio River, the approach over the Gulf of Mexico, and a stunning perspective of Tampa Bay and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge during the descent.
Search flights from DTW to TPA
Detroit Skyline
A potential view of downtown Detroit and the Detroit River immediately after takeoff.
Ohio River
A clear crossing of the historic river separating the Midwest from the South.
Southern Forests
The sprawling reaches of the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests.
Gulf Coastline
The turquoise waters of the Florida Gulf Coast as the flight descends toward Tampa.
Tampa Bay
An iconic view of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and the bay on final approach.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to enjoy the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. It is specifically recommended for the landing sequence at TPA, as it often provides a better view of the bay and the city skyline when the plane banks for its final approach.
Book Hotels in Tampa
Lake Erie
Aerial views of the Great Lake and its southern shoreline shortly after departure.
Appalachian Ridges
The undulating green peaks of the West Virginia and North Carolina mountain ranges.
Jacksonville Coast
Distant glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean and the St. Johns River as the plane enters Florida.
Florida Lake Region
A mosaic of thousands of small freshwater lakes throughout the central Florida interior.
Choose this side for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun. It offers the best perspective of the dense Appalachian forests. As you reach Florida, watch for the distinct change from mountainous terrain to the flat, water-dotted landscape of the peninsula.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,585 km (985 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 7 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.