While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is significantly more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The approach to Grenada's mountainous terrain and Caribbean coastline outweighs the initial Lake St. Clair advantage. Left-side passengers get the better overall experience.
Flown DTW to GND? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Detroit to Point Salines is 2,457 miles (3,955 km), a flight of about 5 hours.
The flight path crosses the Appalachian region (visible as ridgelines and valleys if daylight permits), then over the Atlantic Ocean. Around the midpoint (roughly over the Carolinas/Atlantic), you'll be at cruise altitude with limited ground features. The approach to the Caribbean brings views of the Lesser Antilles island chain—Dominica, Martinique, and St. Lucia may be visible as distant green peaks on the horizon during descent, depending on weather and visibility. The final 30 minutes shows increasing detail of Grenada's volcanic topography and surrounding smaller islands (Carriacou to the north).
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DTW
RIGHTDTW typically departs eastbound (Runways 03L/03R or 21L/21R depending on wind). Right-side seats offer views of Lake St. Clair and the Detroit River system as you climb out over southeastern Michigan. Left side shows inland suburbs and industrial areas with less geographic distinction.
Landing at GND
LEFTApproaching Point Salines from the north (typical arrival routing), left-side seats provide views of Grenada's mountainous interior and the western coastline. You'll see the island's volcanic terrain and the Caribbean Sea. Right side faces open ocean with less distinctive features.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) to Point Salines International (GND)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Detroit to Point Salines. While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is significantly more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The approach to Grenada's mountainous terrain and Caribbean coastline outweighs the initial Lake St. Clair advantage. Left-side passengers get the better overall experience.
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. DTW typically departs eastbound (Runways 03L/03R or 21L/21R depending on wind). Right-side seats offer views of Lake St. Clair and the Detroit River system as you climb out over southeastern Michigan. Left side shows inland suburbs and industrial areas with less geographic distinction. Notable sights include: Lake St. Clair (immediate northeast), Detroit River (narrow waterway separating US/Canada), Lake Erie (distant southern horizon), Windsor Ontario (Canadian city across river to east).
What can I see when landing at Point Salines International in Point Salines?
When landing at Point Salines International (GND), sit on the Left side for the best views. Approaching Point Salines from the north (typical arrival routing), left-side seats provide views of Grenada's mountainous interior and the western coastline. You'll see the island's volcanic terrain and the Caribbean Sea. Right side faces open ocean with less distinctive features. Notable sights include: Grenada's central mountain ridge (St. Catherine's Peak area, ~2,400 ft elevation), Grand Anse Beach (white sand crescent on southwest coast), Grenada's lush green volcanic interior, Caribbean Sea.
How long is the flight from Detroit to Point Salines?
The flight from Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) to Point Salines International (GND) takes about 5 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 2,457 miles (3,955 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Detroit to Point Salines flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Appalachian region (visible as ridgelines and valleys if daylight permits), then over the Atlantic Ocean. Around the midpoint (roughly over the Carolinas/Atlantic), you'll be at cruise altitude with limited ground features. The approach to the Caribbean brings views of the Lesser Antilles island chain—Dominica, Martinique, and St. Lucia may be visible as distant green peaks on the horizon during descent, depending on weather and visibility. The final 30 minutes shows increasing detail of Grenada's volcanic topography and surrounding smaller islands (Carriacou to the north).