Right side wins overall because the takeoff view of Detroit and the Great Lakes region is more dramatic and geographically distinctive than the landing approach. While the landing view is pleasant, the takeoff offers more visual interest with the river, multiple water bodies, and urban contrast.
Flown DTW to CHS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Detroit to Charleston is 669 miles (1,076 km), a flight of about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Appalachian foothills of West Virginia and eastern Kentucky. Around the midpoint, you'll pass over the ridge-and-valley topography of the Appalachians, though at cruise altitude (typically 30,000-35,000 feet) these appear as subtle undulations on the landscape rather than dramatic peaks. The Ohio River is visible from portions of the flight path in the northern part of the route. As you approach Charleston, the terrain flattens considerably into the Atlantic Coastal Plain, with the Lowcountry's characteristic flat, water-logged landscape becoming increasingly apparent on descent.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DTW
RIGHTRight side captures the Detroit River and Windsor, Ontario immediately after departure. DTW typically departs eastbound (runways 03L/03R or 21L/21R depending on wind), and a right-side seat gives you the clearest view of the river corridor and the urban sprawl of metro Detroit as you climb.
Landing at CHS
LEFTLeft side provides the best approach view into Charleston. Typical landing runways are 15 or 33 depending on wind. On descent, left-side seats capture the Ashley River, Charleston Harbor, and the historic downtown peninsula as you line up for final approach, with clear views of the coastal geography that defines the city.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) to Charleston Afb International (CHS)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Detroit to Charleston. Right side wins overall because the takeoff view of Detroit and the Great Lakes region is more dramatic and geographically distinctive than the landing approach. While the landing view is pleasant, the takeoff offers more visual interest with the river, multiple water bodies, and urban contrast.
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 Windsor, Ontario immediately after departure. DTW typically departs eastbound (runways 03L/03R or 21L/21R depending on wind), and a right-side seat gives you the clearest view of the river corridor and the urban sprawl of metro Detroit as you climb. Notable sights include: Detroit River, Windsor Ontario skyline, Lake St. Clair to the northeast, downtown Detroit financial district.
What can I see when landing at Charleston Afb International in Charleston?
When landing at Charleston Afb International (CHS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides the best approach view into Charleston. Typical landing runways are 15 or 33 depending on wind. On descent, left-side seats capture the Ashley River, Charleston Harbor, and the historic downtown peninsula as you line up for final approach, with clear views of the coastal geography that defines the city. Notable sights include: Ashley River, Charleston Harbor, Atlantic Ocean, downtown Charleston peninsula.
How long is the flight from Detroit to Charleston?
The flight from Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) to Charleston Afb International (CHS) takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 669 miles (1,076 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Detroit to Charleston flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Appalachian foothills of West Virginia and eastern Kentucky. Around the midpoint, you'll pass over the ridge-and-valley topography of the Appalachians, though at cruise altitude (typically 30,000-35,000 feet) these appear as subtle undulations on the landscape rather than dramatic peaks. The Ohio River is visible from portions of the flight path in the northern part of the route. As you approach Charleston, the terrain flattens considerably into the Atlantic Coastal Plain, with the Lowcountry's characteristic flat, water-logged landscape becoming increasingly apparent on descent.