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SLC → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more direct view of the jagged Wasatch peaks upon departure and a spectacular crossing of Lake Michigan before descending into Detroit.
Wasatch Range
Dramatic aerial views of the snow-capped peaks immediately after takeoff from SLC.
Wyoming High Desert
Vast, arid landscapes and rugged rock formations across southern Wyoming.
Nebraska Sandhills
Unique undulating grass-stabilized sand dunes spanning the northern horizon.
Mississippi River
Crossing the wide, winding artery of the American heartland near the Iowa-Illinois border.
Lake Michigan
A scenic overwater transit, often providing views of the Michigan coastline and dunes.
Grand Rapids
Views of Western Michigan's urban centers and surrounding forest patches.
Sit on the left for the best indirect lighting when traveling eastward, avoiding the harsh southern sun. This side provides the best perspective of the Great Salt Lake if the plane departs to the north. Watch for the dramatic shift from the high desert to the lush, green Midwest plains.
Uinta Mountains
View the unique East-West oriented mountain range situated south of the flight path.
Platte River
Follow the historic path of the Oregon Trail as the river meanders through the Nebraska plains.
Omaha Skyline
Clear views of the Missouri River crossing and the urban center of Omaha.
Chicago Distance
On clear days, the distant skyline of the Windy City can be seen to the south.
Detroit Metro
Detailed views of the sprawling industrial and residential landscapes of Southeast Michigan during descent.
The right side receives direct sunlight on this eastbound route, so be prepared for glare. It offers a better vantage point for the Platte River and the Southern Rockies in the distance. During the winter, look for the intricate patterns of frozen lakes across Iowa and Illinois.
Distance: 2,378 km (1,478 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 10 min
Departure: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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