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SAN → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route as it provides a front-row seat to the most dramatic sections of the Rocky Mountains and frequently offers a distant view of the Chicago skyline and the deep blue of Lake Michigan during the descent phase.
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Salton Sea
A large saline rift lake in the Colorado Desert visible shortly after takeoff from San Diego.
Central Rocky Mountains
Stunning aerial views of the snow-capped peaks and the Continental Divide in Colorado.
Chicago Skyline
On many routes, the skyline of Chicago is visible to the north across the tip of Lake Michigan.
Lake Michigan
The vast blue expanse of the lake provides a beautiful contrast to the land during the descent.
Sit on the left for the best morning light when traveling east to avoid direct sun glare. Look for the Salton Sea within 20 minutes of takeoff. During the mid-flight, keep your eyes peeled for the high peaks of the Rockies. In winter months, the contrast of snow on the mountains and frozen Great Lakes shorelines is particularly photogenic.
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Anza-Borrego Desert
Rugged badlands and desert canyons immediately east of the San Diego mountains.
Southern Rockies
Views of Pikes Peak and the southern Colorado ranges often appear to the south.
Great Plains Grids
Intricate geometric patterns of circular and square agricultural fields across the Midwest.
Lake Erie Coast
Views of the shoreline and the mouth of the Detroit River during the final approach.
The right side offers excellent views of the desert climb-out from San Diego. During the middle portion of the flight, the agricultural grids of Kansas and Missouri are prominent. On arrival into DTW, this side may offer views of the Detroit River and the Canadian border depending on the landing configuration. This side is preferable for afternoon flights to avoid direct sun from the north.
Book Hotels in DetroitDistance: 3,142 km (1,952 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 42 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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