DTW (Detroit) to SAN (San Diego) flights arrive on time 79% of the time. The most reliable airline on this route is Spirit Airlines at 89%. The average delay is 55 minutes. Delays on this route are most often caused by the airline (crew, maintenance, or boarding).
Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Updated March 2026.DTW → SAN
DTW (Detroit) to SAN (San Diego)
DTW → SAN on-time performance by month
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JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
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This route is on time most of the time. About 79% of flights arrive on schedule.
Delays on this route are most often caused by the airline (crew, maintenance, or boarding).
Accurate?
Spirit Airlines edges out Delta Air Lines on this route — 89% vs 79% on time.
Airline Comparison
Spirit Airlines leads at 89% on time; Delta Air Lines trails at 79%.
Accurate?
Good to know
Departing from DTW
84% on timeExpect ~17 min sitting on the taxiway after your gate pushes back. DTW has long runway queues.
TSA is currently ~8 min. Best time: 4 AM (about 5 min).
Arriving at SAN
80% on timeWhen flights into SAN are late, the average delay is 60 minutes. Build buffer if you have ground plans.
If connecting at SAN: TSA is ~5 min right now. Allow at least 60 minutes for a domestic connection.
Flight cancelled or delayed?
Check what Spirit Airlines owes you — refund rights, action plan, complaint email. Free.
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Data last updated March 2026. Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics.