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MSN → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Dane County Regional Truax Field (Madison) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers a superior mix of urban landmarks and coastal geography, featuring the Milwaukee lakefront shortly after takeoff and the iconic University of Michigan campus during the arrival sequence into Detroit.
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Milwaukee Skyline
A stunning view of the Milwaukee lakefront, including the Art Museum and high-rises, shortly after departure.
Southern Lake Michigan
Expansive views of the deep blue waters and the shipping lanes connecting Chicago to the northern ports.
West Michigan Fruit Belt
Neat geometric patterns of blueberry patches and apple orchards near the Michigan shoreline.
Ann Arbor & The Big House
Clear views of the University of Michigan campus and the massive Michigan Stadium during descent.
Detroit River & Canada
If the flight approaches from the east, you can see the international border, the Ambassador Bridge, and Windsor, Ontario.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the sun. Landmark seekers should look specifically for 'The Big House' in Ann Arbor as a primary indicator that the flight is nearing DTW. For the best views of the Detroit River, hope for an arrival path that loops over Lake Erie before landing north.
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Kettle Moraine State Forest
Glacial landforms and dense forest canopies visible shortly after departing Madison's airspace.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Vast sandy ridges along the Michigan coastline visible to the north during the lake crossing.
Grand Rapids Cityscape
A clear view of West Michigan's largest urban center and the winding Grand River.
Lansing Capitol
The distinct dome of the Michigan State Capitol building can often be spotted in the center of the state.
On morning flights, the left side is preferable to avoid direct sunlight and glare. It offers a more serene view of Michigan's natural landscape and the vastness of the northern Great Lakes region. Keep an eye out for the transition from agricultural fields to dense lakefront forests.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 500 km (311 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 50 min
Departure: MSN (43.13990020751953, -89.3375015258789)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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