About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from La Guardia (LGA) to Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from New York to Detroit. While left wins on takeoff, right dominates the landing experience with views of the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair—two major geographic features that define the approach. The landing view is more distinctive and memorable than the takeoff.
What can I see during takeoff from La Guardia in New York?
During takeoff from La Guardia (LGA), sit on the Left side for the best views. LGA typically departs eastbound (Runways 04/22 depending on wind, but eastbound is standard). Left seats face north initially, giving views of the East River, Manhattan's eastern edge, and the Bronx waterfront during climb-out. Right seats see Queens and Long Island Sound to the south. Notable sights include: East River with FDR Drive visible as a thin line, Manhattan skyline (Empire State Building and Chrysler Building distinguishable at lower altitudes), Bronx waterfront and Harlem River, Long Island Sound to the northeast.
What can I see when landing at Detroit Metro Wayne Co in Detroit?
When landing at Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW), sit on the Right side for the best views. DTW uses Runways 03R/03L or 21L/21R depending on wind. For westbound approaches (common), right seats face north and capture the Detroit River, Windsor Ontario across the border, and the approach over Lake St. Clair. Left seats see the flat suburban sprawl south of the airport. Notable sights include: Detroit River (international boundary), Windsor Ontario skyline across the river, Lake St. Clair to the northeast, suburban Detroit neighborhoods and industrial areas.
How long is the flight from New York to Detroit?
The flight from La Guardia (LGA) to Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) takes Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.
What does the New York to Detroit flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central New York (Finger Lakes region visible from altitude as elongated water bodies), then Pennsylvania (Appalachian ridges running northeast-southwest, visible as subtle terrain texture), and enters Michigan over the flat glacial plains. Lake Erie is typically visible to the south of the direct route. The landscape transitions from forested Appalachian terrain to the flat Great Lakes basin as you approach Detroit.