A UFO pilot escaped Detroit? Clever! (6)

I believe the answer is:

adroit

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'clever' is the definition.
(synonyms)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for adroit that I've seen before include "Skilled" , "Dextrous" , "resourceful" , "To raid (anag)" , "Dexterous, artful" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app