About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Detroit City (DET)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Detroit. Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff view of Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline is more visually striking than the landing approach. While the Detroit River landing view is good, the Lake Michigan climb-out offers more dramatic scenery and a longer viewing window.
What can I see during takeoff from Chicago Midway International in Chicago?
During takeoff from Chicago Midway International (MDW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan as you climb northeast from Midway. The lake dominates the view during initial climb, and you'll see downtown Chicago's high-rises receding to your left across the terrain. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan (immediate eastern boundary), Chicago downtown skyline, Midway Airport grounds and surrounding residential neighborhoods, Illinois prairie extending westward.
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 offer the best views during descent into Detroit City Airport. You'll see the Detroit River and Windsor, Ontario across it, plus downtown Detroit's skyline approaching from the west. The river provides a striking geographic landmark during final approach. Notable sights include: Detroit River (separating Detroit from Windsor, Canada), downtown Detroit skyline, Lake St. Clair to the northeast, Belle Isle (island in the Detroit River).
How long is the flight from Chicago to Detroit?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Detroit City (DET) takes Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
What does the Chicago to Detroit flight path pass over?
The flight path travels northeast from Chicago across northwestern Indiana and southern Michigan. You'll pass over the southern shore of Lake Michigan, with the lake visible to the north throughout much of the flight. The terrain transitions from flat Illinois prairie to the more varied topography of southern Michigan, with scattered lakes and forests becoming more prominent as you approach Detroit. The flight crosses into Michigan airspace roughly 30-40 minutes into the flight, and you may glimpse smaller lakes and the general landscape of southwestern Michigan during cruise altitude.