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MCO → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Orlando International Airport (Orlando) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior vantage point for the Appalachian Mountains mid-flight and a spectacular approach over Lake Erie and the Detroit River into Michigan.
Search flights from MCO to DTW
Space Coast
On a clear day, look east during the initial climb to see the Atlantic coastline and the Kennedy Space Center area.
Blue Ridge Mountains
Enjoy extended views of the hazy blue peaks of the Appalachian range stretching through the Carolinas and Virginia.
Lake Erie Western Basin
Stunning views of the Great Lake, including the many small islands near Put-in-Bay, during the descent.
Detroit River & Windsor
Excellent views of the international border, the Ambassador Bridge, and the skyline of Windsor, Ontario on final approach.
The right side is the 'scenic winner' for the approach into DTW. During the winter, look for ice formations on Lake Erie. For the best mountain views, try to book a mid-afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the eastern slopes of the Appalachians.
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Lake Apopka
View Florida's fourth-largest lake and the surrounding wetlands immediately after departure from MCO.
Atlanta Metro
Catch a glimpse of the sprawling Atlanta metropolitan area and Hartsfield-Jackson Airport as you head north.
Cumberland Plateau
Observe the rugged terrain and deeply dissected plateaus of eastern Tennessee and Kentucky.
Ohio River Valley
Cross the winding Ohio River near the Cincinnati area, marking the transition into the Midwest.
The left side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the harsh eastern sun. Keep an eye out for the distinct grid patterns of Ohio farmland as you begin your initial descent.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,544 km (959 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 4 min
Departure: MCO (28.429399490356445, -81.30899810791016)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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