Top Deals on Flights from Seattle (SEA) to Detroit (DTW): Travel Guide
Cheapest flight found
$139.58
Last updated Feb 16, 2026
Prices by Month
Price History
Tracking the May 7, 2026 departure — the cheapest date we found.
Search this route
From
Seattle (SEA)
To
Detroit (DTW)
Track this route and save
Get email alerts when SEA to DTW prices drop. We check every hour.
Search FlightsTraveling from the lush Pacific Northwest to the historic heart of the American automotive industry has never been more accessible, with multiple daily direct flights bridging the gap between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and Detroit Metropolitan Airport. Whether you are heading east for a high-stakes business meeting at a global corporate headquarters, visiting family in the vibrant Detroit suburbs, or eager to explore the burgeoning culinary and arts scene of the Motor City, this four-and-a-half-hour transcontinental journey offers a seamless transition between two of America's most industrially significant regions. As you cross the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains and the expansive Great Plains, you will find that major carriers like Delta and Alaska Airlines provide consistent and reliable service, ensuring that your trip from the Puget Sound to the Great Lakes is both comfortable and efficient for every type of traveler.
Travel Tips
First, plan to arrive at Sea-Tac (SEA) at least two and a half hours before your flight, as security lines at the main terminal can be unpredictable, especially during the early morning business rush. Second, keep in mind that Detroit is in the Eastern Time Zone, which is three hours ahead of Seattle; adjusting your sleep schedule by just thirty minutes each night for a few days prior to departure can significantly reduce the impact of jet lag. Third, while connecting flights through hubs like Minneapolis or Chicago might offer slight savings, booking a nonstop flight is highly recommended during the winter months to avoid potential snow delays at mid-continent airports. Finally, make sure to download your airline’s mobile app before leaving Seattle, as both Delta and Alaska Airlines utilize their apps for real-time gate updates and baggage tracking, which is incredibly helpful for a long-haul domestic flight of this distance.
Airport Information
Seattle (SEA)
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), popularly known as Sea-Tac, serves as the primary international gateway for the Pacific Northwest and acts as a major hub for both Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines. The airport features a centralized terminal with several satellite concourses connected by an automated underground train system, offering passengers a wide array of local Pacific Northwest dining options, including famous local seafood and world-class artisanal coffee shops to fuel your cross-country journey.
Detroit (DTW)
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is a premier international facility located in Romulus, Michigan, serving as a massive global hub for Delta Air Lines. The airport is renowned for its sleek McNamara Terminal, which features a famous multi-colored LED light tunnel and an efficient indoor tram system, while the Evans Terminal (formerly the North Terminal) handles various other domestic and international carriers, providing travelers with modern amenities, automated check-in kiosks, and a variety of Michigan-themed retail experiences.
Seasonal Pricing Patterns
Flight prices between Seattle and Detroit typically fluctuate based on the automotive industry's event calendar and the seasonal weather patterns of the Midwest. Generally, the most expensive times to fly are during the peak summer months of July and August and during the winter holiday season in late December. For the best value, travelers should look to book during the shoulder seasons of late April to May or throughout the month of October, when airfares are lower and the Michigan weather is remarkably pleasant.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the average flight from SEA to DTW?
A direct flight typically takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes to 4 hours and 45 minutes, depending on the direction of the jet stream.
Which airlines offer nonstop service between Seattle and Detroit?
Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines are the primary carriers that provide daily nonstop flights between Seattle (SEA) and Detroit (DTW).
What is the time difference between Seattle and Detroit?
Detroit is 3 hours ahead of Seattle. When it is 12:00 PM in Seattle, it is 3:00 PM in Detroit.
What is the best time to book a flight for this route?
Fares are generally lowest when booked at least three to five weeks in advance, with mid-week departures (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) often offering the best rates.
Are there public transit options from Detroit Metropolitan Airport?
Yes, the SMART bus system provides high-frequency service from the airport to downtown Detroit and surrounding areas, though many travelers prefer ride-share apps or car rentals.