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MEM → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Memphis International Airport (Memphis) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior urban views including the Memphis and Cincinnati skylines, plus a scenic approach over Lake Erie.
Memphis Skyline
The iconic Pyramid and downtown skyscrapers visible immediately after departure from MEM.
Land Between the Lakes
Large-scale views of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley spanning the Tennessee-Kentucky border.
Cincinnati Riverfront
Clear views of the Ohio River, professional sports stadiums, and the bridges of the Queen City.
Columbus Urban Area
The dense downtown core of Ohio's capital city is often visible from cruising altitude.
Lake Erie Coast
Stunning views of the lake's western basin and the Detroit River mouth on final approach.
Book a window seat on the right for morning flights to witness the sunrise over the Appalachian foothills in the distance. During the arrival into DTW, this side typically offers a panoramic view of the Detroit River and Grosse Ile. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the best view of the Memphis bridge system.
Mississippi River
View of the upper delta region's winding waterways shortly after takeoff from Memphis.
Kentucky Farmland
The geometric patterns of agricultural fields and rural communities across western Kentucky.
Dayton Metro Area
Pass over the birthplace of aviation and the sprawling Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
Toledo Skyline
A view of the Maumee River and the industrial infrastructure of Toledo during the descent.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the sun. On clear nights, this side provides an excellent view of the grid-like lighting of small Midwestern towns. Look for the massive industrial complexes near the Michigan-Ohio border during the final 15 minutes of the flight.
Distance: 982 km (610 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min
Departure: MEM (35.04240036010742, -89.97669982910156)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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