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IND → ORD
Which side of the plane to sit from Indianapolis International Airport (Indianapolis) to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the clear winner, offering a stunning aerial perspective of the Chicago skyline and the Lake Michigan shoreline during the final approach into O'Hare.
Search flights from IND to ORD
Downtown Indianapolis
Views of the Mile Square, Lucas Oil Stadium, and the Salesforce Tower shortly after takeoff.
Wabash River
The winding path of Indiana's state river cutting through the agricultural landscape.
Lake Michigan
The vast, sea-like expanse of the Great Lake appearing as the plane turns for its final approach.
Chicago Skyline
Breathtaking views of the Willis Tower, St. Regis, and the dense cluster of skyscrapers in the Loop.
Navy Pier
The iconic landmark and Ferris wheel extending into the blue waters of the lake.
This is the 'money' side. For the best views of Chicago, hope for an arrival from the east over the lake; the pilot will often fly parallel to the shore before turning west into ORD. Morning flights offer the best lighting on the city buildings, while night flights show the spectacular 'grid of lights' that Chicago is famous for.
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Indianapolis Suburbs
Aerial views of the residential layouts of Avon and Brownsburg during the initial ascent.
Midwestern Grid
A textbook example of the American Land Ordinance grid system with vast agricultural fields.
Fowler Ridge Wind Farm
One of the largest wind farms in the world, featuring hundreds of turbines across the Indiana plains.
Chicagoland Industrial Belt
The expansive logistics hubs and rail yards of the southern Chicago suburbs during descent.
Sit on this side during sunset flights to enjoy the golden hour glow over the rural landscape. While less dramatic than the right, it provides a better view of the massive wind turbine clusters in Benton County about 20 minutes into the flight.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 286 km (178 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 29 min
Departure: IND (39.7173, -86.294403)
Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Route Type: Domestic
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