Both sides are scenically modest over this short flat Midwest route, but the left side edges ahead thanks to the Indianapolis skyline and White River view during arrival, giving it a slight urban scenery bonus over the right side's plain farmland approach.
Flown ORD to IND? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chicago to Indianapolis is 177 miles (286 km), a flight of about 1 hour 5 minutes.
Flat agricultural plains of northern Indiana, grid-pattern farmland, small towns along the route with no major rivers or mountains
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ORD
RIGHTORD departures to the south/southeast toward Indianapolis give right-side passengers a brief look at Chicago's southern suburbs and Lake Michigan's shoreline edge before the flight turns inland over flat farmland. Left side mostly shows featureless suburban sprawl.
Landing at IND
LEFTIND arrivals from the north typically fly a descent path that gives left-side passengers views of downtown Indianapolis, including the compact skyline and the White River, as the aircraft turns onto final approach for runway 23L/23R. Right side offers only farmland.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Indianapolis International (IND)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chicago to Indianapolis. Both sides are scenically modest over this short flat Midwest route, but the left side edges ahead thanks to the Indianapolis skyline and White River view during arrival, giving it a slight urban scenery bonus over the right side's plain farmland approach.
What can I see during takeoff from Chicago Ohare International in Chicago?
During takeoff from Chicago Ohare International (ORD), sit on the Right side for the best views. ORD departures to the south/southeast toward Indianapolis give right-side passengers a brief look at Chicago's southern suburbs and Lake Michigan's shoreline edge before the flight turns inland over flat farmland. Left side mostly shows featureless suburban sprawl. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago southern suburbs, grid-pattern farmland.
What can I see when landing at Indianapolis International in Indianapolis?
When landing at Indianapolis International (IND), sit on the Left side for the best views. IND arrivals from the north typically fly a descent path that gives left-side passengers views of downtown Indianapolis, including the compact skyline and the White River, as the aircraft turns onto final approach for runway 23L/23R. Right side offers only farmland. Notable sights include: Indianapolis downtown skyline, White River, Indianapolis Motor Speedway (occasionally visible), grid-pattern suburbs.
How long is the flight from Chicago to Indianapolis?
The flight from Chicago Ohare International (ORD) to Indianapolis International (IND) takes about 1 hour 5 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 177 miles (286 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chicago to Indianapolis flight path pass over?
Flat agricultural plains of northern Indiana, grid-pattern farmland, small towns along the route with no major rivers or mountains