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PHX → IND
Which side of the plane to sit from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (Phoenix) to Indianapolis International Airport (Indianapolis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the dramatic geological transition from the Arizona desert through the southern Rockies and into the heart of the Midwest, including better potential sightings of the Painted Desert and St. Louis landmarks.
Mogollon Rim
The dramatic 2,000-foot escarpment that marks the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau in Arizona.
Painted Desert
Vibrant badlands featuring stratified layers of siltstone and shale in brilliant shades of lavender and red.
Sangre de Cristo Mountains
The southernmost subrange of the Rocky Mountains, often snow-capped during the winter and spring months.
St. Louis Skyline
Depending on the specific airway, the Gateway Arch and the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers are visible.
Missouri River
The longest river in North America winds through the landscape as you transition into the fertile Midwest.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare while heading east. Watch for the dramatic shift from the high desert of the Southwest to the grid-patterned farmlands of Kansas and Missouri. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes after takeoff for the best geological formations.
Superstition Mountains
Rugged volcanic peaks located just east of the Phoenix metro area, visible shortly after departure.
Palo Duro Canyon
Known as the Grand Canyon of Texas, this massive canyon system features distinct red clay and caliche layers.
Oklahoma City
A clear view of the Devon Tower and the metropolitan sprawl as the flight crosses the southern Great Plains.
Lake of the Ozarks
A massive, winding reservoir in Missouri easily identified by its unique 'dragon' shape from high altitudes.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The world-famous racing circuit is often visible on the descent into IND, located just west of the downtown area.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the plains. If the aircraft approaches Indianapolis from the west, the right side provides an excellent view of the city's suburban layout and the iconic Speedway. Monitor the ground for the massive wind farms located across Indiana and Illinois.
Distance: 2,391 km (1,486 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 11 min
Departure: PHX (33.43429946899414, -112.01200103759766)
Arrival: IND (39.7173, -86.294403)
Route Type: Domestic
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