Chris,
I have been across Lake Michigan several times in two different
airplanes. One was a PA28-180. It is not a problem if you fly 8500 to
10500. There is a narrow window where you cannot reach land if the
engine quit. The good news is it is going to take you nearly 20 minutes
until you are wet. You need to pay attention to the winds. The turn
around point is not necessarily in the middle. Lake reporting service is
helpful as well. they keep close tabs on you if you are not going IFR. i
have also flown the length of Lake Huron in a Maule. Take care of the
engine and it will take care of you.
Michelle

Chris wrote:

I have the chance to fly from Madison, Wi (MSN) to Providence, Ri (PVD) in
July and was wondering about the most favoured route. I will be flying IFR

The most direct seems to be straight across Lake Michigan, north of Detroit
through Lower Ontario in Canada, Buffalo, Albany and then down to PVD. The
aircraft would be a P28-181.

My main questions a

1) Do many of you guys fly across Lake M? This would only be 90nm coast to
coast and can be no worse than crossing the English Channel from Southampton
to Jersey in a Pa17

2) Overflying Canada is no problem I take it other than an ATC spell with
Toronto Center?

3) Fuel stops at RNP and Hamilton (H30).

The early stop at RNP is to fuel up before going into Canadian airspace and
to get over the excitement of the water crossing. No doubt wanting to
dispose of some more water.

Or would people advise taking the long route south through Indiana and Ohio?

Thoughts appreciated

Chris