The right side wins due to the dramatic Wasatch Range views during descent into Salt Lake City, which outweigh the flat, uneventful Midwest scenery shared by both sides during takeoff and cruise.
Flown IND to SLC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Indianapolis to Salt Lake City is 1,352 miles (2,175 km), a flight of about 3 hours 10 minutes.
Great Plains of Nebraska, the Platte River valley, and the high desert basins of southern Wyoming before the terrain rises into the Wasatch Range near Utah
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from IND
RIGHTDeparting IND on runway 23 with a turn toward the northwest, passengers on the right can catch a brief glimpse of downtown Indianapolis's modest skyline and the White River before the flight settles into flat farmland scenery on both sides.
Landing at SLC
RIGHTOn approach into SLC from the east, the descent path skirts the Wasatch Range, giving right-side passengers close views of steep, snow-streaked peaks like Mount Olympus and the Cottonwood Canyons before the plane lines up with the north-south runways. The Great Salt Lake and salt flats appear more distantly on the left.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Indianapolis International (IND) to Salt Lake City International (SLC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Indianapolis to Salt Lake City. The right side wins due to the dramatic Wasatch Range views during descent into Salt Lake City, which outweigh the flat, uneventful Midwest scenery shared by both sides during takeoff and cruise.
What can I see during takeoff from Indianapolis International in Indianapolis?
During takeoff from Indianapolis International (IND), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing IND on runway 23 with a turn toward the northwest, passengers on the right can catch a brief glimpse of downtown Indianapolis's modest skyline and the White River before the flight settles into flat farmland scenery on both sides. Notable sights include: Downtown Indianapolis skyline, White River, checkerboard Indiana farmland.
What can I see when landing at Salt Lake City International in Salt Lake City?
When landing at Salt Lake City International (SLC), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into SLC from the east, the descent path skirts the Wasatch Range, giving right-side passengers close views of steep, snow-streaked peaks like Mount Olympus and the Cottonwood Canyons before the plane lines up with the north-south runways. The Great Salt Lake and salt flats appear more distantly on the left. Notable sights include: Wasatch Range, Mount Olympus, Cottonwood Canyons, Salt Lake Valley floor.
How long is the flight from Indianapolis to Salt Lake City?
The flight from Indianapolis International (IND) to Salt Lake City International (SLC) takes about 3 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,352 miles (2,175 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Indianapolis to Salt Lake City flight path pass over?
Great Plains of Nebraska, the Platte River valley, and the high desert basins of southern Wyoming before the terrain rises into the Wasatch Range near Utah