BUF DTW Buffalo Niagara International to Detroit Metro Wayne Co

Which side of the plane from Buffalo to Detroit

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Which side of the plane?

Pick the window seat with the view. 13,500 routes answered — landmarks, coastlines and cities, wing by wing.

About This Route

Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Buffalo Niagara International (BUF) to Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW)?

Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Buffalo to Detroit. While takeoff favors the right for Lake Ontario views, the landing approach on the left provides superior geography—the Detroit River, Windsor, and downtown Detroit skyline create a more dramatic and memorable finale. The left side captures the defining feature of this route's endpoint.

What can I see during takeoff from Buffalo Niagara International in Buffalo?

During takeoff from Buffalo Niagara International (BUF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures Lake Ontario immediately after departure, with the Niagara River visible below during initial climb. Buffalo's urban grid and the Niagara Escarpment edge are also on the right as you head southwest toward Detroit. Notable sights include: Lake Ontario (north), Niagara River (northeast flowing into lake), Niagara Escarpment ridge (south), Buffalo city center (immediate south).

What can I see when landing at Detroit Metro Wayne Co in Detroit?

When landing at Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Detroit River and Windsor, Ontario during descent into DTW. The river's distinctive curves and the international border are clearly visible, plus downtown Detroit's skyline appears on the left during final approach. Notable sights include: Detroit River (winding waterway), Windsor Ontario (north bank), Downtown Detroit skyline (west bank), Lake St. Clair (southeast in distance).

How long is the flight from Buffalo to Detroit?

The flight from Buffalo Niagara International (BUF) to Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) takes Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.

What does the Buffalo to Detroit flight path pass over?

The flight path crosses Lake Erie's northern shore and the Erie Plain. Notable midpoint features include the southern shore of Lake Erie (visible on clear days), the flat agricultural landscape of northwestern Ohio, and the transition into Michigan's Lower Peninsula terrain. The Maumee Bay area near Toledo marks the approximate midpoint. No significant mountain ranges are visible on this route—the terrain is predominantly glacially-formed lowlands with gentle rolling topography.