Distance and flight time from Phoenix to Detroit
The great-circle distance between Phoenix and Detroit is 2,662 km (1,654 mi, 1,437 nautical miles). By private jet the flight takes between 3h 41m and 7h 30m block time depending on the aircraft class. For most travellers a light jet fits: it covers the route nonstop in about 4h 28m.
- Light jet: 4h 28m (nonstop)
- Midsize jet: 4h 10m (nonstop)
- Super midsize jet: 3h 57m (nonstop)
- Heavy jet: 3h 52m (nonstop)
- Ultra long range jet: 3h 41m (nonstop)
Empty legs and aircraft on the Phoenix – Detroit route
Over the last 18 months we recorded 3 empty legs from Phoenix to Detroit. The most frequent aircraft were Gulfstream GIV-SP and Gulfstream G-IVSP. Most flights operate from Phoenix-Mesa-Gateway Airport (KIWA) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (KDTW).
Range and fuel stops
Not every jet can fly every route nonstop. With reserves, light jets reach about 2,800 km, super midsize jets around 5,500 km and ultra long range jets more than 11,000 km. If the destination is further away, the operator plans a fuel stop of roughly 45 minutes.
For transatlantic flights or routes to Asia the larger class often pays off: it costs more per hour but saves stops and therefore time.
- Turboprop / PC-12: up to approx. 2,200–2,800 km
- Light jet: up to approx. 2,800 km
- Midsize jet: up to approx. 3,700 km
- Super midsize jet: up to approx. 5,500 km
- Heavy jet: up to approx. 7,000 km
- Ultra long range: 11,000 km and more
Calculating the distance between airports
We calculate distance as the great-circle distance (the shortest path over the globe) and also show it in nautical miles, the standard unit in aviation. Because aircraft follow airways and approach procedures, the distance actually flown is slightly longer; the flight time already includes this.
How we calculate
- Distance: great-circle calculation from both airports’ coordinates, plus 5% for airways and approach procedures.
- Flight time: distance flown divided by the class’s typical cruise speed, plus 15 minutes for climb and descent and 10 minutes of taxi per take-off and landing.
- Fuel stops: added once the route exceeds practical range with reserves, 45 minutes on the ground per stop.
- Wind is not included. Strong headwinds (typically westbound across the Atlantic) can add 10–15% to flight time; tailwinds shorten it.
Frequently asked questions
How far is it from Phoenix to Detroit?
The great-circle distance is 2,662 km (1,654 mi) or 1,437 nautical miles. The distance flown is about 5% longer because of airways.
How long is the flight from Phoenix to Detroit?
By private jet about 4h 28m in a light jet and 3h 41m in the fastest jet (an ultra-long-range jet). A typical airliner flying nonstop takes about 4h 02m gate to gate. Wind and air traffic control can change this by a few minutes.
Can a light jet fly Phoenix – Detroit nonstop?
Yes. At 2,662 km the route is within the range of a light jet such as the Citation CJ3+ or Phenom 300E. Flight time is about 4h 28m.
How much is a private jet from Phoenix to Detroit?
A one-way charter in a light jet costs roughly €20,700 to €40,900 for the whole aircraft. Empty legs on this route recently had a median price of €31,300.