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IND → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Indianapolis International Airport (Indianapolis) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the western edge of Lake Erie and the unique international border views along the Detroit River and Windsor, Canada.
Geist Reservoir
Shortly after takeoff from IND, view the luxury waterfront homes and boating docks of Indianapolis's northeast suburbs.
Fort Wayne
A central view of Indiana's second-largest city and the confluence of the St. Marys, St. Joseph, and Maumee Rivers.
Maumee River Valley
Follow the winding path of the Maumee River as it flows northeast toward the city of Toledo.
Western Lake Erie
As the plane turns toward Detroit, the shimmering waters of Lake Erie's western basin come into view.
The International Border
Exceptional views of the Detroit River, the Ambassador Bridge, and Windsor, Ontario across the Canadian border.
Sit on the right side for the best chance to see the water. During final approach, if the plane lands from the south, you will get a perfect view of the Detroit River. This side is also better for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun.
Indiana Heartland
Geometric patterns of vast corn and soybean fields that define the agricultural landscape between Indianapolis and Fort Wayne.
Ann Arbor
On the descent into DTW, look for the University of Michigan campus and the massive 'Big House' stadium.
Dearborn Industry
A clear view of the sprawling Ford Motor Company complexes and the historic industrial heart of the American automotive industry.
Downtown Detroit
Depending on the landing pattern, the left side can catch a glimpse of the Renaissance Center and the city skyline from the west.
Choose the left side for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Michigan horizon. If the flight path takes a northern loop, keep your eyes peeled for the distinct layout of the University of Michigan campus about 10-15 minutes before landing.
Distance: 371 km (231 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 37 min
Departure: IND (39.7173, -86.294403)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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