While takeoff offers good Great Lakes views on the right, the landing approach provides more dramatic and recognizable geography—the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers, Philadelphia's skyline, and the Ben Franklin Bridge are far more visually distinctive than the relatively flat landscape of southeastern Michigan.
Flown DET to PHL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Detroit to Philadelphia is 440 miles (709 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Ohio, passing east of Columbus and Cincinnati. You'll see the Ohio River valley and the Appalachian foothills beginning to rise as you approach Pennsylvania. The terrain transitions from flat Midwest plains to rolling hills. Lake Erie is visible to the north if flying a northern routing. The flight crosses into Pennsylvania roughly over the western border, with the Allegheny Plateau visible as subtle elevation changes in the landscape.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DET
RIGHTDetroit City Airport typically departs eastbound (Runway 09). Right-side seats face north across the Detroit River toward Windsor, Ontario, and the Great Lakes shoreline. You'll see the river's distinctive curves and the urban waterfront clearly before climbing out over Lake St. Clair.
Landing at PHL
LEFTPhiladelphia International typically lands westbound (Runway 27L or 27R). Left-side seats face south during approach and will see the Delaware River estuary, the Schuylkill River confluence, and central Philadelphia's skyline. The river systems and downtown grid are distinctive landmarks during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Detroit City (DET) to Philadelphia International (PHL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Detroit to Philadelphia. While takeoff offers good Great Lakes views on the right, the landing approach provides more dramatic and recognizable geography—the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers, Philadelphia's skyline, and the Ben Franklin Bridge are far more visually distinctive than the relatively flat landscape of southeastern Michigan.
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. Detroit City Airport typically departs eastbound (Runway 09). Right-side seats face north across the Detroit River toward Windsor, Ontario, and the Great Lakes shoreline. You'll see the river's distinctive curves and the urban waterfront clearly before climbing out over Lake St. Clair. Notable sights include: Detroit River (immediate foreground), Windsor Ontario skyline (north), Lake St. Clair (northeast as you climb), Belle Isle Park (visible in river bend).
What can I see when landing at Philadelphia International in Philadelphia?
When landing at Philadelphia International (PHL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Philadelphia International typically lands westbound (Runway 27L or 27R). Left-side seats face south during approach and will see the Delaware River estuary, the Schuylkill River confluence, and central Philadelphia's skyline. The river systems and downtown grid are distinctive landmarks during descent. Notable sights include: Delaware River (major waterway), Schuylkill River (confluence visible), Philadelphia downtown skyline (William Penn statue visible on City Hall), Ben Franklin Bridge (spans Delaware River).
How long is the flight from Detroit to Philadelphia?
The flight from Detroit City (DET) to Philadelphia International (PHL) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 440 miles (709 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Detroit to Philadelphia flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Ohio, passing east of Columbus and Cincinnati. You'll see the Ohio River valley and the Appalachian foothills beginning to rise as you approach Pennsylvania. The terrain transitions from flat Midwest plains to rolling hills. Lake Erie is visible to the north if flying a northern routing. The flight crosses into Pennsylvania roughly over the western border, with the Allegheny Plateau visible as subtle elevation changes in the landscape.