While takeoff offers river views on the right, the approach to SLC on the left provides the most dramatic and sustained visual interest—the Wasatch Range's steep eastern face is one of the most striking geographic features on this entire route and dominates the final 45 minutes of flight.
Flown DET to SLC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Detroit to Salt Lake City is 1,494 miles (2,404 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight crosses the flat agricultural plains of Indiana and Illinois, then transitions into the rolling terrain of Iowa and Missouri. The Mississippi River is visible near the midpoint if flying a slightly southern route. As you approach the Rocky Mountain region around Nebraska-Wyoming, the terrain gradually rises. The Laramie Range and Medicine Bow Mountains become visible on the left (north) side roughly 90 minutes before landing. The final approach descends into the Great Basin with the Wasatch Range's dramatic eastern face dominating the left side during the last 30-40 minutes of flight.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from DET
RIGHTDetroit City Airport typically departs eastbound or northbound. Right-side seats offer views of the Detroit River, Windsor Ontario across the water, and the downtown Detroit skyline receding behind. The river and international border are the most distinctive features from low altitude during climb-out.
Landing at SLC
LEFTApproaching SLC from the east typically uses runways 16L/16R (northbound final). Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Wasatch Range's dramatic eastern escarpment as you descend into the valley, plus the Great Salt Lake's southern arm and Salt Lake City's grid layout against the mountains.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Detroit City (DET) to Salt Lake City International (SLC)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Detroit to Salt Lake City. While takeoff offers river views on the right, the approach to SLC on the left provides the most dramatic and sustained visual interest—the Wasatch Range's steep eastern face is one of the most striking geographic features on this entire route and dominates the final 45 minutes of flight.
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 or northbound. Right-side seats offer views of the Detroit River, Windsor Ontario across the water, and the downtown Detroit skyline receding behind. The river and international border are the most distinctive features from low altitude during climb-out. Notable sights include: Detroit River, Windsor Ontario skyline, Downtown Detroit financial district, Lake St. Clair to the northeast.
What can I see when landing at Salt Lake City International in Salt Lake City?
When landing at Salt Lake City International (SLC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Approaching SLC from the east typically uses runways 16L/16R (northbound final). Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Wasatch Range's dramatic eastern escarpment as you descend into the valley, plus the Great Salt Lake's southern arm and Salt Lake City's grid layout against the mountains. Notable sights include: Wasatch Range (Cottonwood Canyons visible), Great Salt Lake southern portion, Salt Lake City downtown grid, Oquirrh Mountains to the west.
How long is the flight from Detroit to Salt Lake City?
The flight from Detroit City (DET) to Salt Lake City International (SLC) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,494 miles (2,404 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Detroit to Salt Lake City flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the flat agricultural plains of Indiana and Illinois, then transitions into the rolling terrain of Iowa and Missouri. The Mississippi River is visible near the midpoint if flying a slightly southern route. As you approach the Rocky Mountain region around Nebraska-Wyoming, the terrain gradually rises. The Laramie Range and Medicine Bow Mountains become visible on the left (north) side roughly 90 minutes before landing. The final approach descends into the Great Basin with the Wasatch Range's dramatic eastern face dominating the left side during the last 30-40 minutes of flight.