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IAH destination photo
DTW destination photo

IAHDTW

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side offers superior views of the major river systems and a more dramatic approach over Lake Erie and the Detroit River international border upon arrival.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🐍

Mississippi River

Witness the massive, winding curves and oxbow lakes of the Mississippi River valley.

💧

Ohio River Crossing

See the confluence where major river systems merge near the southern tip of Illinois.

🌊

Lake Erie Coast

Breathtaking views of the Great Lakes shoreline as the aircraft begins its final descent into Detroit.

🇨🇦

International Border

Direct views of the Detroit River, which separates the United States from Windsor, Canada.

🏙️

Detroit Skyline

Excellent views of the Renaissance Center and downtown Detroit during the standard approach sequence.

The Right Side is preferred for the 'Motown' approach. Watch for the Detroit River and the Ambassador Bridge. For evening flights, this side catches the warm 'golden hour' light reflecting off the Great Lakes. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing for the best photography of the river border.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌳

Ouachita Mountains

View the rolling, forested ridges of Arkansas shortly after reaching cruising altitude.

🏙️

St. Louis Horizon

On clear days, the distant St. Louis skyline and the Gateway Arch may be visible to the west.

🌊

Lake Michigan Glimpse

As the flight nears Michigan, the southern tip of Lake Michigan can sometimes be seen in the far distance.

🚜

Midwestern Patchwork

Intricate geometric patterns of Illinois and Indiana farmland create a stunning aerial quilt.

Sit on the left for potential views of Houston's downtown during departure if taking off to the south. During winter, look for the stark contrast of snow-covered fields across the central plains. Morning flights on this side avoid the direct glare of the sun.

Top Activities in Detroit
Route Information

Distance: 1,731 km (1,076 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 18 min

Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)

Route Type: Domestic

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