Both sides are largely flat Midwest terrain typical of this short regional hop, but the right side edges ahead with brief glimpses of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline at takeoff plus the Detroit River and skyline on approach.
Flown MDW to DTW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Detroit is 228 miles (366 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Flat farmland and small towns of northern Indiana and southern Michigan, with no major landmarks at cruise altitude on this short hop.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MDW
RIGHTDeparting MDW to the southeast or southwest, the right side offers a brief glimpse of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline before the plane turns east, while the left side just shows flat suburban grid streets.
Landing at DTW
RIGHTOn approach to DTW from the west under typical southwest-facing runway use, the right side can catch views of the Detroit River and downtown Detroit's riverfront skyline before the final turn onto the runway complex.
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 Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Detroit. Both sides are largely flat Midwest terrain typical of this short regional hop, but the right side edges ahead with brief glimpses of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline at takeoff plus the Detroit River and skyline on approach.
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. Departing MDW to the southeast or southwest, the right side offers a brief glimpse of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline before the plane turns east, while the left side just shows flat suburban grid streets. Notable sights include: Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan shoreline, Midway's surrounding grid neighborhoods.
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. On approach to DTW from the west under typical southwest-facing runway use, the right side can catch views of the Detroit River and downtown Detroit's riverfront skyline before the final turn onto the runway complex. Notable sights include: Detroit River, Detroit downtown skyline, Renaissance Center, Ambassador Bridge.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Detroit?
The flight from Chicago Midway International (MDW) to Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 228 miles (366 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Detroit flight path pass over?
Flat farmland and small towns of northern Indiana and southern Michigan, with no major landmarks at cruise altitude on this short hop.