Seattle (SEA) to Detroit (DTW) at a glance

Travelers can choose from a diverse selection of airlines offering weekly flights from Seattle (SEA) to Detroit (DTW) along this domestic short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service options or budget-friendly carriers, you can easily compare choices to find the best fit for your budget and schedule. Discover key details for flights from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) as you prepare to explore the city's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods.

• Fastest flight duration: around 4h 15m non-stop
• Route distance: roughly 1,900 miles (3,060 km)
• Flights per week: around 30+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
• Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $105–$455, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Seattle - Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Seattle to Detroit, featuring both non-stop and one-stop options. Popular layover cities include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with a layover of about 1 hour, Denver International Airport (DEN) at approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with a 1 hour and 15-minute layover. This variety allows you to tailor your journey by considering price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.

• Delta: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way fares generally between $120 and $550. Delta operates about 53% of flights on this route, featuring an average non-stop travel time of 4 hours and 15 minutes.
• Alaska Airlines: Another full-service option, Alaska Airlines offers both non-stop and one-stop services, with one-way prices usually ranging from $105 to $465. Approximately 26% of departures on this route are with Alaska, and the typical non-stop flight duration is 4 hours and 15 minutes.
• United: A full-service airline providing one-stop flights, United's one-way fares typically fall between $130 and $435. It accounts for around 7% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 5 hours and 45 minutes and a total journey time of about 7 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
• American Airlines: Offering both non-stop and one-stop services, American Airlines features one-way fares that typically range from $105 to $425. This carrier makes up about 6% of all departures on this route, with a standard one-stop journey clocking in at 5 hours and 45 minutes in the air and a total travel time of around 7 hours and 15 minutes.
• Frontier Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Frontier Airlines provides one-stop flights with one-way fares generally between $105 and $260. It represents approximately 3% of departures on this route, featuring a flight time of 5 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total journey time of roughly 7 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.

Travelers flying from Seattle to Detroit have the option to enhance their journey with upgraded flight choices. Delta provides first class and premium economy seating, while Alaska Airlines features first class and business class options, and American Airlines offers first class service.

Best time to fly from Seattle (SEA) to Detroit (DTW)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Seattle to Detroit are March, July, and August, when peak temperatures in Detroit reach up to 74.1°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 41.9°F. For better deals, January usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $225. Flight availability peaks in August, with approximately 56 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 23 flights per week.

• Cheapest time to fly: January usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $225, roughly 16% cheaper than the yearly average.
• More budget-friendly months to fly: March, February, and May typically offer average one-way fares of around $242.
• Most flight options: August has the highest number of flights from Seattle to Detroit, with approximately 56 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.

Month	Temperature	Demand	Weekly Flights	Average one-way Fare
January	25.3°F (-3.7°C)	Average	23	$225
February	26.2°F (-3.2°C)	Average	25	$241
March	36.3°F (2.4°C)	Slightly High	27	$239
April	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Average	28	$262
May	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Average	37	$244
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Average	47	$293
July	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Slightly High	55	$293
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Slightly High	56	$299
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Slightly Low	36	$300
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Average	38	$295
November	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Slightly Low	33	$257
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Slightly Low	33	$268

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

Alternative route from Seattle (SEA) to Detroit (DTW)

• Seattle to Flint (SEA-FNT): Bishop International Airport (FNT) is located approximately 56 miles from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). One-way economy prices for this journey generally fall between $160 and $445, influenced by the time of year and how far in advance the ticket is booked. Passengers can choose from both one-stop and multi-stop itineraries, with a majority of connections occurring via O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Major airlines operating on this route include American Airlines and United, and there are also options for business and first-class service available.

How to find the best prices for flights from Seattle (SEA) to Detroit (DTW)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Seattle to Detroit is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are typically found by booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which is when most travelers make their reservations. Early morning departures (12 AM-5 AM) usually offer lower prices, although morning flights (5 AM-12 PM) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Saturday often results in cheaper prices, while Thursday remains the most sought-after travel day.
2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport from Seattle - Tacoma International Airport

Detroit welcomes travelers from Seattle with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Seattle - Tacoma International Airport is roughly a 20-minute drive (covering about 14 miles) from central Seattle. Here's how to reach Detroit efficiently:

• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Detroit, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
• Public transportation: From Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Dearborn Station, a train station, is located about 8.3 miles away, providing convenient access for travelers heading to the city.