DTW to ORD Route Guide
Detroit, United States → Chicago, United States
Quick answer
KDTW (Detroit, United States) to KORD (Chicago, United States) is a 203 NM (376 km / 234 mi) great-circle route with an initial bearing of 267° (W). Typical cruise altitude FL80, expected flight time 1h 42m, common aircraft: Cessna 172, Piper PA-28, Cirrus SR22.
Distance
203 NM
376 km / 234 mi
Initial Bearing
267° (W)
True heading at departure
Typical Cruise
FL80
8,000 ft
Block Time
1h 42m
Typical jet, no wind correction
Fuel Estimate
2,109 kg
Single-aisle equivalent + reserve
Departure Elevation
645 ft
KDTW
Arrival Elevation
672 ft
KORD
What aircraft fly this route?
For a 203 NM mission, operators typically deploy:
- Cessna 172
- Piper PA-28
- Cirrus SR22
- King Air 200
Weather considerations
Pilots flying DTW-ORD should brief METARs and TAFs at both ends, plus any en-route SIGMETs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the distance between DTW and ORD?
203 nautical miles (376 km / 234 statute miles) great-circle.
How long is the flight from Detroit to Chicago?
Approximately 1h 42m block-to-block for a typical commercial jet, depending on aircraft type and winds.
What aircraft typically fly DTW-ORD?
Common types include Cessna 172, Piper PA-28, Cirrus SR22, King Air 200 depending on operator and demand.
What altitude do flights cruise at?
Most flights at this distance cruise around FL80 (8,000 ft), though winds and traffic affect filed altitude.
What initial heading is the route?
267° true (W). Track varies along the route due to great-circle curvature.
Plan your next flight with confidence
Free aviation tools: METAR decoder, fuel calculator, weather, and live tracking.
Start Free →