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DTW → YOW
Which side of the plane to sit from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit) to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Detroit skyline upon departure and the iconic Parliament Hill and Gatineau Hills when approaching Ottawa from the west.
Detroit Skyline
Aerial view of the Renaissance Center, the Ambassador Bridge, and the Detroit River immediately after takeoff.
Lake St. Clair
A clear view of the heart-shaped lake between Michigan and Ontario shortly after reaching cruising altitude.
The Bruce Peninsula
On more northerly paths, glimpse the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters of Georgian Bay in the distance.
Parliament Hill
The historic Gothic revival buildings of Canada's capital are often visible on the descent into YOW.
Gatineau Park
Vibrant green rolling hills and lakes located just across the river in Quebec as the plane banks for landing.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the downtown Ottawa core during landing. In the evening, this side offers beautiful sunset views over the Canadian Shield. Window seats forward of the wing are best to avoid engine heat distortion during photography of the Detroit skyline.
Lake Erie North Shore
Follow the coastline of Lake Erie, seeing the transition from industrial zones to agricultural landscapes.
Greater Toronto Area
Look across Lake Ontario for a distant view of the CN Tower and the massive urban sprawl of the GTA.
Thousand Islands
If the flight path trends south, catch the start of the St. Lawrence River and its numerous tiny islands.
Lake Ontario Coast
Sweeping views of the northern shoreline of Lake Ontario, including the cities of Hamilton and Oakville.
Rideau River
The winding path of the Rideau River as it cuts through the southern suburbs of Ottawa during final approach.
The right side is excellent for midday flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun which typically stays to the south. Keep an eye out for the Niagara Escarpment cutting through the Ontario landscape. This side is preferred if the flight path takes a more southerly route over Lake Ontario.
Distance: 707 km (439 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 11 min
Departure: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Arrival: YOW (45.3224983215332, -75.66919708251953)
Route Type: International
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