Comerica Park Detroit

Comerica Park Detroit

Taking Flight: The Detroit Metro Airport Takes Service to a New Level

With many new renovations in place, it's hard not to notice the dramatic changes Detroit's Metro Airport has undergone in the last few years. With a new terminal, an additional sixth runway, convenient access, a new parking garage, and the luxury-class Westin Hotel, visitors are treated to an adventure in travel as they enter the Detroit Metro Airport doors or disembark from their plane.

Situated just 18 miles west of downtown, the Detroit Metro Airport is the nation's 11th busiest airport. To handle the volume of traffic, Metro Airport has three terminals servicing 20 major airlines, as well as slew of charter, commuter, and cargo lines. As a hub, the vast majority of travelers pass through Northwest Airlines' $1.6 billion Edward H. McNamara/Northwest World Gateway Terminal. Here, visitors find modern conveniences such as nearly 100 international and domestic gates located in one facility, E-ticket kiosks, luggage check-in both in the connected parking deck and curb-side, kids' play areas, and two elevated indoor trams that travel the one-mile length of Concourse A.

Newly expanded services also boast spacious walkways, enhanced luggage terminals, and Detroit-themed shops and restaurants, which add to the appeal. Improvements continue into 2008 as the airport continues with ongoing construction of its North Terminal Redevelopment (NTR) Project, a 26-gate terminal complex being designed to replace the aging Smith Terminal, which is scheduled to open later in the year.

When completed, the North Terminal complex will be used to accommodate DTW's airlines that are currently operating out of the Smith and Berry Terminals. The new terminal will also have a Federal Inspection Station (FIS) to accommodate international flights. A three-level Ground Transportation is also being constructed adjacent to the blue deck to accommodate all commercial vehicle loading and unloading. This new North Terminal complex is a critical link in the airport's efforts to maximize both the efficiency of the airport and its economic value to the community. The project modernizes the entire airport terminal complex and creates a world-class facility that provides the type of services passengers and visitors have come to expect from Metro Detroit.

The shops and eateries of the Detroit Metro Airport provide everything from local brands such as the GM, Henry Ford, and Motown Music stores, to national brands such as Brooks Brothers, Erwin Pearl, and the PGA Tour Shop. Gifts and travel accessories for every need can be found throughout the airport's terminals.

When it comes to great eats, the airport easily delivers. From Mexican fare at the Jose Cuervo Tequilerai and Diego's Mexican Cantina to Middle Eastern favorites including hummus and fatoush at the Mediterranean Grill, visitors can find anything to fill their cravings. Of course, there's everyone's fast food and grab-and-go items as well.

Within the new McNamara Terminal, passengers enjoy an endless array of eatery options including Coffee Beanery Cafe, Max & Erma's, Fox Sky Box Sports Bar, and the SORA Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar. Shops such as Borders Bookstore, Palm (High Tech Accessories), and the Harley-Davidson Store transform travelers into shoppers as they disembark or await their flights.

Dispelling the stereotypes of airport hotels, Detroit Metro Airport's Westin Hotel, located in the McNamara Terminal, offers a private security entrance, the latest in technology, and Detroit's most stylish and comfortable surroundings. The hotel's mission is to help visitors actually relax while they travel.

Each of the 404 guest rooms and 10 suites feature the Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Bath as well as High Speed Internet Access. Guests may rejuvenate with a workout at the WestinWorkout, enjoy a swim in the indoor pool, or indulge in spa treatments. An evening in the Dema Restaurant and Dema Bar features modern cuisine with an Asian flair.

The Detroit Metro Airport and Westin Hotel are just 10 minutes from Ford Motor Company's World Headquarters, The Henry Ford Museum, and Greenfield Village, and just 20 minutes from downtown Detroit, General Motors World Headquarters, Comerica Park, the Fox Theatre, and the major area casinos.

About the Author

Checker Sedan provides limousine Detroit service from the Detroit Metro Airport servicing the Detroit Metro region. Detroit travel has never been easier with limousine Detroit service.