DTW Detroit Airport Transportation

Travelers arriving at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) have several transportation options for reaching downtown Detroit and the surrounding metropolitan area. These include public buses, taxis and ride-hailing services, rental cars, and private vehicles. The airport is located about 32 km (20 miles) southwest of downtown Detroit, making travel times relatively short by road.

Below is a detailed guide to the main transportation options available at DTW.

Buses and Airport Shuttles

Public buses are one of the most economical ways to travel between the airport and the city.

The main services are operated by the SMART and the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT).

SMART FAST Michigan Route

One of the most popular airport connections is the FAST Michigan bus route, which links the airport with downtown Detroit.

Typical route highlights

• Detroit Metro Airport (McNamara and Evans terminals)
• Dearborn Transit Center
• Downtown Detroit

Approximate travel time:
45–60 minutes

Estimated fare:
$2–$4 depending on route and distance.

Bus stop location

• Ground transportation areas outside both terminals.

Airport Shuttle Services

Several private shuttle companies and hotel shuttles also operate at DTW.

Typical destinations include:

• Downtown Detroit hotels
• Ann Arbor
• Dearborn

Prices typically range from $20 to $40 per passenger, depending on the destination.

Shuttles depart from designated ground transportation areas outside the baggage claim level.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing (Uber / Lyft)

Taxis are available 24 hours a day outside both terminals.

Typical taxi destinations include:

• Downtown Detroit
• Dearborn
• Ann Arbor
• Suburban business districts

Approximate fares

• Downtown Detroit: $45–$60
• Ann Arbor: $35–$50
• Dearborn: $30–$40

Travel time to downtown Detroit is typically 25–35 minutes, depending on traffic.

Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are also widely used.

Pickup locations

• Designated ride-share pickup zones outside arrivals level.

Rail, Metro, or Tram Connections

Unlike many major U.S. airports, Detroit Metro Airport currently does not have a direct rail connection.

However, travelers heading to the city can transfer to rail services after reaching downtown Detroit.

The most notable systems are:

• Detroit People Mover – an elevated loop serving downtown attractions.
• QLine – a streetcar running along Woodward Avenue between downtown and Midtown.

These systems are mainly used for local travel once inside the city, rather than airport access.

Car Rental

Car rental is one of the most popular transportation options at Detroit Metro Airport, especially for travelers planning to explore Michigan or nearby states.

The Rental Car Center is located near the airport and is connected to both terminals by free shuttle buses.

Rent a car in Detroit Airport

Major companies operating at DTW include:

• Hertz
• Avis
• Budget
• Enterprise Rent-A-Car
• National Car Rental

Typical daily rental prices

• Economy car: $40–$70
• Mid-size car: $60–$90
• SUV: $80–$150+

Getting to the Airport by Private Car

DTW is easily accessible by car thanks to its proximity to major highways in southeastern Michigan.

The main highway serving the airport is:

• Interstate 94

Other important routes include:

• Interstate 275
• Interstate 75

Driving times to the airport:

• Downtown Detroit: 25–35 minutes
• Ann Arbor: 25 minutes
• Toledo (Ohio): about 1 hour

Both terminals have clearly marked drop-off and pickup lanes, and several parking facilities are available for short-term and long-term stays.

Transfers

If you want private transportation to get to your destination, you can book a transfer. 

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