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ORD → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers a superior vantage point for the iconic Chicago skyline during departure and the diverse industrial and natural landscapes of the southern Great Lakes region.
Search flights from ORD to DTW
Chicago Skyline
A spectacular view of the Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, and Navy Pier shortly after rotation.
Gary Industrial Belt
The massive steel mills and industrial ports of Northwest Indiana stretching along the lakeshore.
Michigan Fruit Belt
Detailed views of the patchwork quilt of blueberry farms and orchards that define southwestern Michigan.
Detroit Metro Hub
Clear views of the automotive industrial complexes and the dense urban grid leading into Detroit.
For the best chance at the Chicago skyline, sit on the right side; however, visibility depends on the wind direction and runway configuration. Morning flights provide excellent front-lighting on the Detroit landscape. Look for the distinct curve of the Detroit River and the Canadian border just before landing.
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O'Hare Terminal Complex
A sprawling aerial view of one of the world's busiest aviation hubs immediately after takeoff.
Lake Michigan Deep Water
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue horizon while crossing the southern basin of the lake.
West Michigan Dunes
The sandy ridges and harbor entries near Benton Harbor and St. Joseph as you cross the coastline.
University of Michigan
Distant views of the sprawling Ann Arbor campus and Michigan Stadium to the north during descent.
Choose a seat in front of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. This side is best for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. Watch for the change in water color from turquoise near the shore to deep navy in the center of the lake.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 376 km (234 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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