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DCA â IND
Which side of the plane to sit from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Washington) to Indianapolis International Airport (Indianapolis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled front-row seat to the iconic monuments of Washington, D.C. immediately after takeoff, followed by expansive views of the Shenandoah Valley and a superior angle for the approach into Indianapolis.
National Mall & Pentagon
On departure, look out for the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the massive pentagonal shape of the Department of Defense.
Potomac River
Enjoy the winding curves of the Potomac as the aircraft climbs away from the capital region.
Shenandoah National Park
Aerial views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the lush greenery of the Shenandoah Valley.
Ohio River Crossing
Scenic views of the Ohio River as you transition from West Virginia into the Midwest.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Depending on the landing pattern, you may spot the historic 'Brickyard' racing circuit just west of downtown.
Choose the left side for the best chance to see the 'River Visual' departure. For late afternoon flights, the sun will be on the left side, so keep your window shade down initially to avoid glare. Looking out during the final 10 minutes provides the best view of the Indiana landscape's geometric grid.
Arlington National Cemetery
A somber and impressive view of the neat white rows of headstones across the river from D.C.
Allegheny Mountains
Fly over the rugged, ridged terrain of the Allegheny Plateau in West Virginia.
Columbus, Ohio
On a clear day, the skyline of Ohio's capital is often visible to the north mid-flight.
Midwestern Farmland
Watch the transition into the flat, productive agricultural heartland of central Indiana.
Eagle Creek Reservoir
A large body of water visible just before touchdown when approaching Indianapolis from the west.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight while flying west. It offers a broader view of the northern Appalachian ridges. If the plane circles north of Indianapolis for arrival, this side offers the clearest views of the suburban sprawl and the White River.
Distance: 802 km (498 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: DCA (38.8521, -77.037697)
Arrival: IND (39.7173, -86.294403)
Route Type: Domestic
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