Loading map...
LEX → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Blue Grass Airport (Lexington KY) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the most iconic views, starting with the rolling Kentucky horse farms and offering a direct perspective of the Cincinnati riverfront and Detroit skyline during the approach.
Bluegrass Horse Country
Lush green pastures and white-fenced thoroughbred farms surrounding Lexington immediately after departure.
Cincinnati Riverfront
A clear view of Great American Ball Park, Paycor Stadium, and the downtown skyscrapers along the river.
Lake Erie Basin
The sparkling waters of the western basin of Lake Erie, often visible as the plane begins its descent.
Detroit Skyline
A panoramic view of the Renaissance Center and the downtown Detroit cluster if the flight path aligns for a northern approach.
River Rouge Complex
Historic industrial landmarks and the massive Ford manufacturing facilities that define the region's heritage.
The right side is best for morning flights to avoid glare while viewing the Kentucky landscape. Be ready within the first 10 minutes for the Cincinnati skyline. On arrival, the landing pattern at DTW often circles over Lake Erie, providing a dramatic transition from water to city views.
Ohio River Crossing
A scenic view of the winding Ohio River marking the border between Kentucky and Ohio shortly after takeoff.
West Cincinnati
Views of the suburban sprawl and the hilly landscape surrounding the western side of the Queen City.
Ohio Agriculture
Expansive views of the geometric patchwork of Ohio's massive agricultural heartland.
Toledo & Maumee Bay
The western tip of Lake Erie and the industrial shipping ports located at the mouth of the Maumee River.
Ambassador Bridge
The international border crossing connecting Detroit to Windsor, Canada, visible during the final descent.
Choose the left side for evening flights to enjoy the sunset over the Midwest plains. This side is also excellent for viewing the heavy shipping traffic near Toledo as you approach the Michigan border. Keep an eye out for the expansive solar farms in southern Michigan.
Distance: 476 km (296 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 48 min
Departure: LEX (38.0364990234375, -84.60590362548828)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.