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RDUIND

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains, the right side provides a superior vantage point for the West Virginia state capital, potential views of Cincinnati, and the best angle for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on descent.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌳

Piedmont Plateau

The transition from the North Carolina coastal plain into the rolling hills of the Piedmont region.

🏛️

Charleston Capitol

Spot the distinctive gold-leaf dome of the West Virginia State Capitol building along the Kanawha River.

🏙️

Cincinnati Skyline

On clear days, the distant skyscrapers of Cincinnati and the Great American Ball Park are visible to the north.

🏎️

Indy Motor Speedway

The massive, iconic 2.5-mile oval of the 'Racing Capital of the World' is often visible on the final approach into IND.

🏘️

Downtown Indianapolis

A clear view of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument and the Lucas Oil Stadium as the plane maneuvers for landing.

The right side is the 'winner' for urban landmarks. Keep your camera ready about 15-20 minutes before landing to catch the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Early morning flights on this side avoid direct sun glare, making it easier to see the details of the Charleston, WV skyline.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Blue Ridge Mountains

Aerial views of the rolling peaks and hazy ridges of the southern Appalachian range shortly after takeoff.

🏞️

New River Gorge

The deep, ancient carving of the New River as it cuts through the West Virginia plateau.

🌊

Ohio River Bends

Dramatic oxbows and wide curves of the Ohio River as you cross from West Virginia into the Midwest.

🚜

Hoosier Farmland

The geometric patterns of Indiana's agricultural heartland as the terrain flattens out during descent.

Choose the left side for spectacular sunset views if flying in the late afternoon or evening. During the fall, this side offers an expansive look at the autumn colors across the dense forests of the Jefferson National Forest.

Top Activities in Indianapolis
Route Information

Distance: 785 km (488 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min

Departure: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)

Arrival: IND (39.7173, -86.294403)

Route Type: Domestic

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