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SWF → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Stewart International Airport (Newburgh) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Catskill Mountains shortly after takeoff and the potential to spot the southern tips of the Finger Lakes and the vast expanse of Lake Erie during the descent into Detroit.
Hudson Highlands
Immediate views of the scenic Hudson River narrows and Storm King Mountain after departure.
Catskill Peaks
Dramatic views of New York's primary mountain range stretching toward the north.
Finger Lakes Region
On clear days, the southern tips of New York's iconic glacial lakes are visible.
Lake Erie Expanse
Wide-angle views of the Great Lake as the aircraft begins its descent over the water.
Detroit-Windsor Skyline
Excellent views of the Renaissance Center and the international border crossing at the Ambassador Bridge.
Sit on the right side for the best natural scenery. On morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for photos of the Catskills and the Finger Lakes region. Watch for the sharp transition from the forests of New York to the blue expanse of Lake Erie.
Pocono Mountains
Dense forests and recreational lakes of eastern Pennsylvania's rugged plateau.
Allegheny Plateau
Undulating green hills and deep valleys of the northern Appalachian range.
Cleveland Lakefront
Distant views of the Cleveland skyline and its historic industrial lakefront.
Detroit River Shipping
Watch for massive Great Lakes freighters navigating the narrow channel between the US and Canada.
Ford Rouge Complex
The massive, historic industrial site visible just before landing at DTW.
The left side is ideal for late afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the horizon, though be prepared for solar glare. During the final approach, this side provides a better view of the heavy industry that built Detroit.
Distance: 770 km (478 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 17 min
Departure: SWF (41.50410079956055, -74.10479736328125)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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