Right side provides superior views on both legs: Philadelphia's river and skyline during departure, and the best sightlines across Pennsylvania and Ohio toward Detroit. Left side has the landing advantage but takeoff dominance and the longer flight duration favor right.
Flown PHL to DET? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Philadelphia to Detroit is 440 miles (709 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Pennsylvania (Appalachian foothills visible as low ridges), then enters Ohio passing east of Columbus. The Ohio River appears as a major waterway in southern Ohio. Lake Erie becomes visible on the left (north) side during the final descent phase into Michigan, with the lake's southern shoreline and islands visible before reaching Detroit.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PHL
RIGHTRight side seats capture the Delaware River and Philadelphia's downtown skyline during northwestbound climb-out. You'll see the river's distinctive curves and the urban core receding below, with good views of the Schuylkill River confluence.
Landing at DET
LEFTLeft side seats offer the best approach views into Detroit City Airport. You'll see the Detroit River, Windsor Ontario across the water, and the downtown Detroit skyline as you descend on final approach from the southeast.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Detroit City (DET)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Philadelphia to Detroit. Right side provides superior views on both legs: Philadelphia's river and skyline during departure, and the best sightlines across Pennsylvania and Ohio toward Detroit. Left side has the landing advantage but takeoff dominance and the longer flight duration favor right.
What can I see during takeoff from Philadelphia International in Philadelphia?
During takeoff from Philadelphia International (PHL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side seats capture the Delaware River and Philadelphia's downtown skyline during northwestbound climb-out. You'll see the river's distinctive curves and the urban core receding below, with good views of the Schuylkill River confluence. Notable sights include: Delaware River, Philadelphia downtown skyline, Schuylkill River, Ben Franklin Bridge.
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 approach views into Detroit City Airport. You'll see the Detroit River, Windsor Ontario across the water, and the downtown Detroit skyline as you descend on final approach from the southeast. Notable sights include: Detroit River, Windsor Ontario skyline, Downtown Detroit, Belle Isle.
How long is the flight from Philadelphia to Detroit?
The flight from Philadelphia International (PHL) to Detroit City (DET) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 440 miles (709 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Philadelphia to Detroit flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Pennsylvania (Appalachian foothills visible as low ridges), then enters Ohio passing east of Columbus. The Ohio River appears as a major waterway in southern Ohio. Lake Erie becomes visible on the left (north) side during the final descent phase into Michigan, with the lake's southern shoreline and islands visible before reaching Detroit.