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ELM destination photo
DTW destination photo

ELMDTW

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the iconic Finger Lakes immediately after takeoff and the potential for a distant view of Niagara Falls and the Detroit-Windsor skyline during the descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🍷

The Finger Lakes

Incredible views of Keuka and Seneca Lakes, known for their deep blue waters and surrounding vineyards.

🏞️

Letchworth State Park

Known as the Grand Canyon of the East, the Genesee River gorge is often visible mid-flight.

🌊

Niagara Region

On clear days, look north to spot the mist from Niagara Falls and the urban sprawl of Buffalo.

🇨🇦

Ontario Shoreline

The agricultural patterns and wind farms of Southern Ontario as you cross the northern edge of Lake Erie.

🏙️

Detroit-Windsor Skyline

A prime view of the Renaissance Center and the Ambassador Bridge connecting the US and Canada.

Sit on the right for the best morning light and the most geographic variety. The first 15 minutes are critical for the Finger Lakes; have your camera ready immediately. During the descent into DTW, this side usually offers a clear look at the Detroit skyline and the Canadian border.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌲

Allegheny Plateau

Rolling forested hills and deep valleys of the northern Appalachian range shortly after departure.

🌊

Presque Isle

The distinctive sandy arch of Presque Isle State Park jutting into Lake Erie near Erie, Pennsylvania.

🏙️

Cleveland Skyline

A distant view of the Ohio shoreline including the skyscrapers of downtown Cleveland and the lakefront.

🏝️

Western Basin Islands

Aerial views of South Bass and Kelleys Island dotting the shallow western end of Lake Erie.

🏭

Detroit River Industry

The heavy industrial landscape of the downriver area and Zug Island during the final approach.

Choose the left side for spectacular sunset views over the Ohio landscape on evening flights. This side is also better for spotting the winding Ohio-Pennsylvania border and the southern coastline of Lake Erie.

Top Activities in Detroit
Route Information

Distance: 532 km (331 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 53 min

Departure: ELM (42.1599006652832, -76.8916015625)

Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)

Route Type: Domestic

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