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GSP → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Greenville Spartanburg International Airport (Greenville) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the Appalachian ridges during the ascent and a spectacular view of the Detroit River and city skyline during the typical approach into DTW.
Appalachian Ridges
Parallel mountain ridges and dense forests of West Virginia and Eastern Ohio are visible during the middle segment of the flight.
Columbus Metro Area
Great views of Ohio's capital city and its surrounding suburban sprawl midway through the journey.
Lake Erie Islands
On the descent, you can often spot the Lake Erie islands, including Put-in-Bay, depending on the specific approach path.
Detroit River & Skyline
Prime viewing of the Renaissance Center, the Ambassador Bridge, and the international border between Detroit and Windsor.
The right side is the 'money side' for this route. For the best landing views, choose a seat behind the wing. During the typical landing pattern into DTW, the aircraft often flies north past the city before turning back, offering a panoramic view of the Detroit skyline and the Canadian border. In the winter, look for ice floes on Lake Erie.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Initial climb provides a stunning look at the rugged peaks and deep green valleys of the southern Appalachian range.
Ohio River Crossing
A clear view of the winding Ohio River as it snakes between the borders of Kentucky and Ohio.
Western Ohio Plains
Expansive views of the geometric agricultural patterns and small towns characteristic of the Midwest landscape.
Lake Erie Western Basin
As the plane descends, you catch glimpses of the western edge of Lake Erie near the Michigan border.
Sit on the left if you enjoy seeing the sun set over the horizon during evening flights. This side is also better for viewing the transition from the mountains to the flat plains of the Midwest. Avoid sitting directly over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Ohio River crossing.
Distance: 820 km (510 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: GSP (34.895698547399995, -82.2189025879)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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