Summary
The greater Detroit region is home to several airports that provide passenger flights to various domestic and international destinations. Airports farther afield in Windsor, Ontario, as well as Toledo, Ohio, and Flint, Michigan, offer more choices that may allow travelers to cut travel time, save money, and minimize stress.
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
- Location: Romulus
- Best If: You’re flying internationally.
- Avoid If: You want to take public transportation to downtown Detroit.
- Distance from Downtown Detroit: A 25-minute taxi will cost about $45, while the 60-minute bus ride costs about $2. Detroit isn’t known for its public transportation—often referred to as the Motor City.
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, located in Romulus, Michigan, just southeast of the I-94 and I-275 interchange, is among the largest airports in the nation. It features six runways, two major terminals with attached parking structures, and 145 gates, providing nonstop travel to more than 140 destinations. Although several major airlines operate from Detroit Metro Airport, including Spirit Airlines and Southwest Airlines, it is Delta that predominantly offers a vast number of flights, being the airline’s second-largest hub.
Despite handling 35.2 million passengers in 2018, navigating Detroit Metro is a straightforward experience. The modern terminals are well organized, and security lines generally move efficiently. However, public transportation options are limited; expect an hour-long bus ride to reach downtown.
Bishop International Airport (FNT)
- Location: Flint
- Best If: You want to skip the crowd, or you’re flying to Chicago, Atlanta, or Florida.
- Avoid If: You’re not renting a car.
- Distance from Downtown Detroit: An hour-long taxi ride will cost about $70. There are no public transportation options, although a Greyhound bus runs from downtown Flint; getting to the bus terminal from the airport would be necessary.
Bishop International Airport in Flint served approximately 700,000 passengers in 2018, ranking as Michigan’s third busiest airport after Detroit Metro and Grand Rapids. It has nonstop routes to Chicago, Atlanta, and four cities in Florida through Allegiant, American, Delta, and United. Following a significant renovation in 2012, the airport’s passenger terminal is designed for convenient access. Given the airport’s lower congestion levels, travelers can expect shorter security lines and a smoother overall transportation experience. Renting a car is advisable to reach downtown Detroit, as taxi fares can be steep, and no public transport is available.
Capital Regional International Airport (LAN)
- Location: Lansing
- Best If: You happen to find a great deal.
- Avoid If: You’re not renting a car.
- Distance from Downtown Detroit: A 90-minute taxi ride can exceed $100. There are no public transportation options; renting a car is essential for travelers flying into Lansing aiming to reach Detroit.
Lansing’s Capital Region International Airport offers nonstop routes to Detroit, Chicago, Minneapolis, and Washington, D.C., serviced by American, Delta, and United. Seasonal nonstop flights to Cancun, Mexico, are also available, enabling locals to escape the harsh winters. While deals to this airport can be attractive, travelers should consider its distance from Detroit (about 100 miles), making it a less convenient option if rental cars are not part of the plan.
Toledo Express International Airport (TOL)
- Location: Swanton Township, Ohio
- Best If: You want affordable flights with Allegiant to/from Florida.
- Avoid If: You are looking to avoid layovers.
- Distance from Downtown Detroit: An 80-minute taxi will cost about $100, though bus options (Greyhound and Megabus) are available from downtown Toledo to Detroit. Renting a car remains the most efficient choice.
Toledo Express Airport is served by two major airlines—American Eagle, which provides nonstop service to Chicago O’Hare, and Allegiant Air, which offers direct flights to numerous Florida destinations. Unless you are pursuing those budget-friendly flights to Florida, it is often more advantageous to fly into Detroit Metro. For those landing at Toledo, renting a car is highly recommended due to limited alternative transportation options.
Windsor International Airport (YQG)
- Location: Southeast Windsor, Ontario, Canada
- Best If: You seek quick access to downtown Detroit or are traveling to/from Canada.
- Avoid If: You want to avoid crossing the border.
- Distance from Downtown Detroit: A 20-minute taxi ride will cost approximately $40 due to border crossing fees. Public transport options are limited—one would need to take a $20 taxi to the bus terminal followed by a $5 bus to Detroit.
Windsor International Airport (YQG) is the closest airport to downtown Detroit, positioned just eight miles from the city. However, it is located across the border in Canada, necessitating a passport for travel. Air Canada is the primary operator, providing commuter flights to Toronto and Montreal, from which further connections can be found. Seasonal service to warmer regions, such as Florida and the Dominican Republic, is also available.
Although the airport is conveniently situated near Detroit, border crossing may require some time, depending on various factors, and additional costs for taxi rides will be incurred. Depending on travel plans once in Detroit, renting a car may ultimately be the most practical choice.
