Right side dominates both segments: you get the Detroit River and lakes on departure, then as you cross Michigan and enter New York, the right side faces north toward the Finger Lakes region and eventually Lake Champlain's eastern approach. Left side has the Green Mountains on descent, but right side offers more continuous scenic value across the flight.
Flown DTW to BTV? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Detroit to Burlington is 535 miles (862 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
As you cross Michigan and enter New York airspace, you'll pass over or near the Finger Lakes (Seneca and Cayuga Lakes visible as long, narrow water bodies), then transition into the Lake Champlain basin. The terrain shifts from flat Michigan plains to rolling Appalachian foothills and eventually the Green Mountains. Lake Ontario may be visible to the north on clear days depending on exact flight path.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from DTW
RIGHTRight side captures the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair as you climb northeast. You'll see the river's distinctive curves and the broader expanse of the lake spreading out, which are prominent from low altitude during initial climb.
Landing at BTV
LEFTLeft side gives you views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains as you descend into Burlington. The lake dominates the approach, and the mountains rise distinctly to the west, creating a dramatic frame for arrival.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) to Burlington International (BTV)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Detroit to Burlington. Right side dominates both segments: you get the Detroit River and lakes on departure, then as you cross Michigan and enter New York, the right side faces north toward the Finger Lakes region and eventually Lake Champlain's eastern approach. Left side has the Green Mountains on descent, but right side offers more continuous scenic value across the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Detroit Metro Wayne Co in Detroit?
During takeoff from Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair as you climb northeast. You'll see the river's distinctive curves and the broader expanse of the lake spreading out, which are prominent from low altitude during initial climb. Notable sights include: Detroit River, Lake St. Clair, downtown Detroit skyline, Belle Isle.
What can I see when landing at Burlington International in Burlington?
When landing at Burlington International (BTV), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side gives you views of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains as you descend into Burlington. The lake dominates the approach, and the mountains rise distinctly to the west, creating a dramatic frame for arrival. Notable sights include: Lake Champlain, Green Mountains, Burlington waterfront, Winooski River.
How long is the flight from Detroit to Burlington?
The flight from Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) to Burlington International (BTV) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 535 miles (862 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Detroit to Burlington flight path pass over?
As you cross Michigan and enter New York airspace, you'll pass over or near the Finger Lakes (Seneca and Cayuga Lakes visible as long, narrow water bodies), then transition into the Lake Champlain basin. The terrain shifts from flat Michigan plains to rolling Appalachian foothills and eventually the Green Mountains. Lake Ontario may be visible to the north on clear days depending on exact flight path.