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PHX destination photo
IND destination photo

PHXIND

Our Recommendation
8.2

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌵

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

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.

Top Activities in Indianapolis
Route Information

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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