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TVC → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Cherry Capital Airport (Traverse City) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers unparalleled views of Michigan's most beautiful inland lakes, including the turquoise waters of Torch Lake, and provides a superior angle for the Detroit skyline and Lake St. Clair during the approach.
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East Grand Traverse Bay
Immediate views of the deep blue waters and the lush Old Mission Peninsula vineyards right after takeoff.
Torch Lake
Known as the 'Caribbean of the North,' its striking turquoise sandbars are clearly visible shortly after departure.
Higgins and Houghton Lakes
A pair of large, scenic inland lakes located in the heart of the northern Lower Peninsula.
Saginaw Bay
The massive coastal indentation of Lake Huron is visible to the east as the flight progresses south.
Detroit Skyline
On clear days during a northern approach, see the Renaissance Center and the Ambassador Bridge to Canada.
Sit on the left for the iconic 'turquoise water' shots near Traverse City. For photography, morning flights have the sun on this side, which can cause glare; late afternoon flights provide the best lighting for the Detroit skyline approach. Keep an eye out for the distinct 'mitten' shape of the shoreline.
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Sleeping Bear Dunes
The massive sand dunes on the Lake Michigan coast are visible in the distance to the west during the initial climb.
Manistee National Forest
Vast stretches of dense green canopy that transform into vibrant reds and golds during the autumn months.
Ann Arbor
View the sprawling University of Michigan campus and Michigan Stadium ('The Big House') during the descent.
Willow Run Airport
Historic WWII-era airfield visible just west of the DTW approach path.
The right side is ideal for travelers who enjoy vast forest landscapes and the sprawling suburban grid of Southeast Michigan. It offers a great perspective of the University of Michigan campus if the flight path tracks slightly west of the airport. This side stays in the shade during morning flights, making it better for glare-free photos.
Book Hotels in DetroitDistance: 334 km (208 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 33 min
Departure: TVC (44.74140167236328, -85.58219909667969)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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