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XNA → DTW
Which side of the plane to sit from Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (Bentonville) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Detroit)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is typically superior for this route because it offers better views of the urban landscape of Indianapolis, the blue expanse of Lake Erie, and the Detroit River waterfront during the final descent.
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Missouri River
Winding through the central plains, providing a stark contrast to the surrounding farmland.
Indianapolis
The urban grid of the city and the famous Motor Speedway are often visible from cruise altitude.
Lake Erie
The western basin of the Great Lake provides a beautiful coastal view as the plane begins its final turn.
Detroit Riverfront
Iconic views of the Renaissance Center and the international border bridge to Windsor, Canada.
The right side is prime for capturing the industrial geography of the Midwest. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for the Detroit skyline. Watch for the dramatic change in water color as you approach Lake Erie, usually about 15-20 minutes before touchdown. If landing from the south, this side provides the best view of the Detroit city center.
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Ozark Plateau
Dense green forests and rolling hills visible shortly after departure from XNA.
St. Louis Arch
The iconic Gateway Arch can often be spotted on the horizon as you cross the Missouri-Illinois border.
Mississippi River
A massive geographic landmark cutting through the landscape with industrial barge traffic.
Ann Arbor
During the descent phase, look for the sprawling University of Michigan campus and its massive football stadium.
Sit on the left for morning flights to minimize solar glare. Keep a close eye out for the Mississippi River approximately 25 minutes into the flight. If the approach into DTW comes from the west, you will get an excellent overhead view of the university town of Ann Arbor.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 1,149 km (714 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: XNA (36.281898, -94.306801)
Arrival: DTW (42.212398529052734, -83.35340118408203)
Route Type: Domestic
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