About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Detroit to Chicago. The right side misses the best of the Detroit departure but delivers the superior view on approach into Chicago, which is the more dramatic and sustained visual experience. The Chicago lakefront approach on the right side is one of the better urban arrival views in the Midwest.
What can I see during takeoff from Detroit Metro Wayne Co in Detroit?
During takeoff from Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW), sit on the Left side for the best views. DTW's primary westbound departures (runways 21L/21R or 22L/22R) take you southwest toward Chicago. The left side faces south, giving you a clear view of the Detroit River, Lake Erie's western tip, and the dense urban grid of Detroit and its suburbs as you climb out. The right side faces north into suburban sprawl with less geographic interest. Notable sights include: Detroit River and Ambassador Bridge, western tip of Lake Erie, Toledo metro area to the south, Detroit's downtown skyline receding behind.
What can I see when landing at Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
When landing at Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Right side for the best views. ORD arrivals from the east typically use runways 10L/10R or 9L/9R, approaching from the east-northeast. The right side faces south, giving you a prolonged view of Chicago's lakefront, Grant Park, the Loop skyline, and Lake Michigan's southern shoreline as you descend. The left side faces north into suburban Cook County with far less visual payoff. Notable sights include: Chicago Loop skyline, Lake Michigan shoreline, Grant Park and Museum Campus, Midway Airport visible to the south.
How long is the flight from Detroit to Chicago?
The flight from Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) to Chicago Ohare International (ORD) takes Approximately 45-55 minutes.
What does the Detroit to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight crosses northern Indiana at cruise altitude, passing over the flat agricultural plains of the Midwest. Lake Michigan's southern tip is visible to the north from the right side during cruise. Gary, Indiana's industrial corridor and the Indiana Dunes shoreline are faintly visible on the right side as you begin descent. The terrain throughout is uniformly flat with no significant topographic relief.