Detroit to Los Angeles: DTW to LAX Flight Guide & Travel Tips
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Last updated Feb 16, 2026
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Tracking the May 7, 2026 departure — the cheapest date we found.
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Detroit (DTW)
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Los Angeles (LAX)
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Search FlightsTraveling from the industrial heart of the Midwest in Detroit to the sun-drenched coastlines of Los Angeles represents one of the most popular cross-country journeys in the United States, connecting the historic automotive legacy of Michigan with the glitz and glamour of the global entertainment capital. This flight path offers travelers a seamless transition from the Great Lakes region to the Pacific Ocean, whether you are heading west for a high-stakes cinematic business venture, a family vacation to world-renowned theme parks, or simply to enjoy the Mediterranean climate that defines Southern California. With several daily non-stop options available, bridging these two iconic American cultures takes just over five hours, making it a convenient escape from the snowy Michigan winters to the perennial sunshine of the West Coast.
Travel Tips
To ensure a smooth journey from DTW to LAX, consider booking a morning flight to avoid the potential for afternoon thunderstorms in the Midwest or coastal fog delays in Southern California that often peak in the late evening. Since this is a long-haul domestic flight spanning three different time zones, staying properly hydrated and wearing compression socks can significantly improve your comfort level during the five-hour transit. If you are flying with Delta Air Lines, which maintains a massive primary hub at Detroit Metropolitan, you can often find more frequent non-stop options and superior terminal amenities like the Westin hotel connection. Finally, always download the mobile apps for your airline and LAX airport to pre-order food upon arrival, as the terminal dining areas in Los Angeles can be extremely crowded during peak arrival windows and traffic to the city center can take over an hour.
Airport Information
Detroit (DTW)
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) serves as a primary international gateway and a massive hub for Delta Air Lines, consistently ranking high for passenger satisfaction. Known for its modern McNamara Terminal, which features an iconic indoor tram and a stunning multi-colored light tunnel, the airport provides a highly efficient and aesthetically pleasing experience for departing passengers. Travelers can enjoy a wide variety of local Michigan-inspired dining options and high-end retail stores while waiting for their departure to the West Coast.
Los Angeles (LAX)
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving as the primary entry point to Southern California and the Pacific Rim. Located right along the coast near Westchester, it offers nine different terminals currently undergoing massive multibillion-dollar renovations to improve passenger flow, including a new automated people mover system. Upon arrival, passengers have access to a vast array of services, including the landmark Theme Building and numerous shuttle connections to car rental hubs and regional transit centers.
Seasonal Pricing Patterns
Flight prices for the DTW to LAX route fluctuate significantly based on seasonal demand, with the peak summer months of June through August and major holidays like Christmas seeing the highest fares. Conversely, travelers can often find the most budget-friendly deals during the late winter months of January and February, or the shoulder seasons of late April and October. Booking at least four to six weeks in advance, and opting for mid-week departures on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, is generally recommended to secure the most competitive rates for this popular transcontinental journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average flight time from DTW to LAX?
A non-stop flight from Detroit to Los Angeles typically takes between 4 hours and 45 minutes to 5 hours and 30 minutes, depending on wind speeds and weather conditions.
Which airlines offer non-stop flights on this route?
Delta Air Lines and Spirit Airlines are the primary carriers offering consistent non-stop service from DTW to LAX, though other major carriers offer one-stop connections.
What is the time difference between Detroit and Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is in the Pacific Time Zone, which is 3 hours behind Detroit's Eastern Time Zone.
What is the best way to get from LAX to downtown Los Angeles?
The most common options include the LAX FlyAway bus service, rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft, or the Metro C Line (Green) which can be accessed via a free shuttle from the terminals.
Does DTW offer long-term parking for travelers to LA?
Yes, DTW offers several long-term parking options including the Big Blue Deck and the McNamara Parking Garage, as well as several off-site private lots with shuttle service.