Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff views of Florida's Atlantic coastline and lake system are more visually distinctive than the landing views. The descent into Detroit offers good water views, but the takeoff scenery is more varied and dramatic.
Flown MCO to DET? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Orlando to Detroit is 971 miles (1,562 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
During cruise over Georgia and Tennessee, you'll pass over the Appalachian Mountains' foothills (visible as rolling terrain with ridges running northeast-southwest), the Tennessee River valley, and various reservoirs. The flight path typically crosses over northern Georgia, eastern Tennessee, and Kentucky before reaching the Ohio River valley. Lake Michigan becomes visible during the final descent approach to Detroit.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MCO
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Florida peninsula's eastern coastline and inland lakes during the northbound climb-out. You'll see the Atlantic Ocean and barrier islands receding to the east, plus the chain of lakes that dot central Florida's landscape.
Landing at DET
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Detroit River, Lake St. Clair, and the broader Great Lakes system during the descent into DET. You'll see the water bodies that define the Detroit-Windsor border and the industrial waterfront areas.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Orlando International (MCO) to Detroit City (DET)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Orlando to Detroit. Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff views of Florida's Atlantic coastline and lake system are more visually distinctive than the landing views. The descent into Detroit offers good water views, but the takeoff scenery is more varied and dramatic.
What can I see during takeoff from Orlando International in Orlando?
During takeoff from Orlando International (MCO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Florida peninsula's eastern coastline and inland lakes during the northbound climb-out. You'll see the Atlantic Ocean and barrier islands receding to the east, plus the chain of lakes that dot central Florida's landscape. Notable sights include: Atlantic Ocean and barrier islands (east), Lake Apopka (west of MCO), Shingle Creek and central Florida lake chain (south and west), Orlando urban sprawl (immediate vicinity).
What can I see when landing at Detroit City in Detroit?
When landing at Detroit City (DET), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Detroit River, Lake St. Clair, and the broader Great Lakes system during the descent into DET. You'll see the water bodies that define the Detroit-Windsor border and the industrial waterfront areas. Notable sights include: Detroit River (flowing south from Lake St. Clair), Lake St. Clair (north of Detroit), Lake Erie (distant southern horizon), Detroit metropolitan sprawl and downtown skyline.
How long is the flight from Orlando to Detroit?
The flight from Orlando International (MCO) to Detroit City (DET) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 971 miles (1,562 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Orlando to Detroit flight path pass over?
During cruise over Georgia and Tennessee, you'll pass over the Appalachian Mountains' foothills (visible as rolling terrain with ridges running northeast-southwest), the Tennessee River valley, and various reservoirs. The flight path typically crosses over northern Georgia, eastern Tennessee, and Kentucky before reaching the Ohio River valley. Lake Michigan becomes visible during the final descent approach to Detroit.