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Is a 40 min layover in Detroit long enough?

DTW · Detroit Metro Wayne Co · Detroit, United States
Probably Enough

Yes, 40 minutes is probably enough for a layover at DTW (Detroit).

Comfortable for a same-terminal domestic connection using the tram.
Quick Stats
Concourses
2
Max Transit
25m
Avg. Security
15m
Primary Hub
Delta Air Lines
Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
35min
tight
Domestic → International
45min
✗
International → Domestic
60min
✗
International → International
60min
✗
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Tips for 40 min Connections
Stay within McNamara Terminal whenever possible since the tram makes A-B-C connections extremely fast.
If connecting to or from a North Terminal airline like American, Southwest, or United, budget extra time for the shuttle bus and a fresh security screening.
Delta's hub operates in banks, so mid-morning and early evening see the tightest concourse crowds and tram queues.
International arrivals at McNamara go through a well-organized but sometimes slow Federal Inspection Services process, so build in buffer for that step.
Use the moving walkways and overhead signage in McNamara if you'd rather walk than wait for the tram.
Busyness — Connection Risk
12a6a12p6p12a
Low risk
Moderate
High risk
Tight connections are safer outside peak hours. Morning rush (6–9a), midday (11a–2p), and evening (4–8p) are highest risk.
Getting Between Concourses
Within McNamara Terminal, the Express Tram glides above the concourses connecting A, B, and C in just a few minutes, and moving walkways line the concourses for those who skip it. Getting to or from the North Terminal requires an inter-terminal shuttle bus (5-10 minutes plus wait time) and a full walk through security again since it's landside-connected only. International arrivals at McNamara clear Federal Inspection Services before continuing to connecting flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 40 minutes enough for a layover at Detroit Metro Wayne Co (DTW)?

Comfortable for a same-terminal domestic connection using the tram.

What is the minimum connection time at DTW?

Minimum connection times at Detroit Metro Wayne Co: Domestic-to-Domestic is 35 minutes, International-to-International is 60 minutes. These are the shortest layovers airlines will sell.

Can I make a 40 minutes connection at DTW on an international flight?

40 minutes is below the 60-minute international MCT at Detroit Metro Wayne Co. You may need to rush and could miss your connection. Within McNamara Terminal, the Express Tram glides above the concourses connecting A, B, and C in just a few minutes, and moving walkways line the concourses for those who skip it. Getting to or from the North Terminal requires an inter-terminal shuttle bus (5-10 minutes plus wait time) and a full walk through security again since it's landside-connected only. International arrivals at McNamara clear Federal Inspection Services before continuing to connecting flights.

What happens if I miss my connection at DTW?

Delta operates extensive rebooking kiosks and staffed help desks throughout McNamara Terminal, and Delta's app often auto-rebooks passengers on missed connections in real time given the frequency of hub flights.

Other Layover Durations at DTW
25 min30 min35 min45 min50 min55 min1 hr1¼ hr1½ hr1¾ hr2 hr2½ hr3 hr4 hr
40 min Layovers at Other Airports
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