The left side captures brief glimpses of both the Chicago and Detroit skylines during takeoff and landing, while the rest of this short, flat Midwest flight offers little scenic variation on either side.
Flight Path
Flat agricultural plains of northern Indiana and southern Michigan, with scattered small towns and no significant terrain relief
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
LEFTDeparting ORD to the east, the flight path passes just south of downtown Chicago, giving left-side passengers a brief but recognizable view of the skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline before the aircraft turns inland over flat Illinois farmland.
Landing at DTW
LEFTOn approach into DTW from the southwest toward runway 22, left-side passengers get a passing view of the Detroit River and the downtown Detroit skyline with the Ambassador Bridge, before the flat suburban approach to the airport.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Detroit. The left side captures brief glimpses of both the Chicago and Detroit skylines during takeoff and landing, while the rest of this short, flat Midwest flight offers little scenic variation on either side.
What can I see during takeoff from Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
During takeoff from Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing ORD to the east, the flight path passes just south of downtown Chicago, giving left-side passengers a brief but recognizable view of the skyline and Lake Michigan shoreline before the aircraft turns inland over flat Illinois farmland. Notable sights include: Chicago skyline (Willis Tower, Loop), Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago suburbs grid pattern.
What can I see when landing at Detroit Metro Wayne Co in Detroit?
When landing at Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach into DTW from the southwest toward runway 22, left-side passengers get a passing view of the Detroit River and the downtown Detroit skyline with the Ambassador Bridge, before the flat suburban approach to the airport. Notable sights include: Detroit skyline (Renaissance Center), Detroit River, Ambassador Bridge, Lake St. Clair in far distance.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Detroit?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW) takes 1h 10m.
What does the Chicago to Detroit flight path pass over?
Flat agricultural plains of northern Indiana and southern Michigan, with scattered small towns and no significant terrain relief