Detroit to New York is 485 miles (781 km), a flight of about 1 hour 40 minutes.
The right side wins on both ends of this short flight — Detroit's compact skyline during the turn after takeoff, and the far more dramatic Manhattan skyline and East River during the LGA approach, which is the standout feature of an otherwise flat-terrain route.
Flight Path
Lake Erie's eastern shoreline, the rolling Allegheny Plateau of northern Pennsylvania, and the Susquehanna River valley pass beneath the cruise track before descent into the New York metro area.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from DET
RIGHTDeparting DET typically uses runway 33 in prevailing westerly winds, climbing northwest before turning east toward New York. This turn puts downtown Detroit's skyline and the Detroit River/Windsor waterfront on the right side of the aircraft as it banks.
Landing at LGA
RIGHTArrivals into LGA from the west often descend over the Hudson Valley and swing south before turning onto final, giving a clear view of the Manhattan skyline and the East River off the right side of the aircraft. This brief but iconic skyline pass is the scenic highlight of the flight.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Detroit City (DET) to La Guardia (LGA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Detroit to New York. The right side wins on both ends of this short flight — Detroit's compact skyline during the turn after takeoff, and the far more dramatic Manhattan skyline and East River during the LGA approach, which is the standout feature of an otherwise flat-terrain route.
What can I see during takeoff from Detroit City in Detroit?
During takeoff from Detroit City (DET), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing DET typically uses runway 33 in prevailing westerly winds, climbing northwest before turning east toward New York. This turn puts downtown Detroit's skyline and the Detroit River/Windsor waterfront on the right side of the aircraft as it banks. Notable sights include: Detroit River, Downtown Detroit skyline, Renaissance Center, Windsor, Ontario shoreline.
What can I see when landing at La Guardia in New York?
When landing at La Guardia (LGA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Arrivals into LGA from the west often descend over the Hudson Valley and swing south before turning onto final, giving a clear view of the Manhattan skyline and the East River off the right side of the aircraft. This brief but iconic skyline pass is the scenic highlight of the flight. Notable sights include: Manhattan skyline, East River, Hudson River, LaGuardia's Rikers Island approach.
How long is the flight from Detroit to New York?
The flight from Detroit City (DET) to La Guardia (LGA) takes about 1 hour 40 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 485 miles (781 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Detroit to New York flight path pass over?
Lake Erie's eastern shoreline, the rolling Allegheny Plateau of northern Pennsylvania, and the Susquehanna River valley pass beneath the cruise track before descent into the New York metro area.