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HSV → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Huntsville International Carl T Jones Field (Huntsville) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer views of the Midwest, the right side is preferred for its vantage point over the Cumberland Plateau and the superior approach views of Lake Erie and the Detroit skyline.
Cumberland Plateau
Dense forest cover and rugged ridges of the Appalachian foothills visible during the first half of the trip.
Bluegrass Country
The distinct, manicured landscapes of Kentucky's horse country near Lexington.
Columbus Skyline
Excellent views of the Ohio Statehouse and the growing downtown core of Ohio's capital.
Lake Erie Shoreline
Stunning vistas of the Great Lakes coastline and the Maumee Bay during the descent.
Detroit River & Canada
A unique perspective of the international border between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, including the Ambassador Bridge.
The right side is essential for the scenic 'water approach.' During winter, you can see ice formations on Lake Erie. For the best photography of the Detroit skyline during landing, sit mid-cabin or forward to avoid engine heat blur. Late afternoon flights offer a beautiful golden hour glow over the Kentucky hills.
Tennessee River
Immediately after takeoff, witness the winding Tennessee River and the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge.
Nashville Basin
Distant views of the Nashville metropolitan area and the rolling green hills of central Tennessee.
Ohio River Crossing
A clear view of the massive Ohio River as the flight crosses from Kentucky into Ohio.
Dayton Aviation History
Fly near the birthplace of aviation, offering views of the urban layout of Dayton and Wright-Patterson AFB.
Midwestern Patchwork
The transition into the perfectly gridded farmland and agricultural squares of northern Ohio.
Choose a seat on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is ideal for spotting the industrial corridors of the Ohio Valley. If the flight path takes a western approach into DTW, you will see the extensive cargo facilities of the airport first.
Distance: 893 km (555 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: HSV (34.637199401855, -86.775100708008)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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