Transport Options at Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.
Indianapolis International Airport offers several convenient transportation options connecting the airport with downtown Indianapolis and the surrounding region. Travelers can choose between public buses, taxis, rideshare services, rental cars, and private vehicles. Thanks to the airport’s location only about 11 km (7 miles) southwest of downtown Indianapolis, most journeys to the city center take less than 20 minutes depending on traffic.
If you are traveling light and staying downtown, public buses can be the most economical option. For faster trips or late-night arrivals, rideshare services are usually the most convenient.
Transport Comparison: Airport to Downtown Indianapolis
| Transport | Average Time | Estimated Price | Frequency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Bus (IndyGo) | 30–40 min | $1.75 | Every 30–60 min | Budget travelers |
| Taxi | 20 min | $30–40 | Available 24/7 | Direct travel |
| Uber / Lyft | 20 min | $22–35 | Available 24/7 | Convenience |
| Rental Car | 20 min | $45+ per day | 24/7 | Regional travel |
| Private Car | 15–20 min | Fuel + parking | Anytime | Local travelers |
Bus and Shuttle Services
Public transportation from Indianapolis Airport is operated mainly by IndyGo, the city’s public bus system. Buses depart from the Ground Transportation Center on the lower level of the terminal, just outside the baggage claim area.
The most important route serving the airport is IndyGo Route 8, which connects the airport with downtown Indianapolis and several neighborhoods along Washington Street.
Typical travel time to downtown is around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and stops along the route.
The standard bus fare is approximately $1.75 per trip, making it the cheapest way to reach the city center.
Exact change or a transit card is recommended when boarding the bus. Using the IndyGo mobile app allows travelers to buy tickets in advance.
Some hotels near the airport also offer complimentary shuttle services for their guests. These shuttles usually operate every 20–30 minutes and can be found in the Ground Transportation Center.
Taxis and Rideshare Services
Taxis are available outside the terminal at the designated Ground Transportation Center. Licensed airport taxis operate 24 hours a day and provide direct transport to downtown Indianapolis and surrounding areas.
The average taxi fare to downtown is typically between $30 and $40, depending on traffic and the final destination.
Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are also widely used at Indianapolis Airport. Pick-up zones are located in the Ground Transportation Center, and passengers can request rides through their mobile apps.
During major events like the Indianapolis 500 or large conventions, rideshare prices can surge. Booking a ride early may help avoid higher fares.
Metro, Train or Tram
Indianapolis currently does not have a metro, train, or tram connection to the airport. The city relies primarily on bus services, taxis, and private vehicles for airport transportation.
However, the city has expanded its bus rapid transit system in recent years, including the IndyGo Red Line, which improves public transport connections within the city.
Travelers staying near the Red Line corridor can combine the airport bus with the BRT system to reach other parts of Indianapolis.
Car Rental
Car rental is a popular option for travelers planning to explore Indiana or visit nearby cities such as Bloomington, Lafayette, or Cincinnati.
All major rental companies are located inside the Ground Transportation Center, connected directly to the terminal building and parking garage.
Typical car rental prices start around $45–70 per day depending on the vehicle type, demand, and season.
See more information
| Company | Location | Vehicle Types |
|---|---|---|
| Hertz | Ground Transportation Center | Economy, SUV, Premium |
| Enterprise | Ground Transportation Center | Economy, SUV, Vans |
| Avis / Budget | Ground Transportation Center | Compact to Luxury |
| National / Alamo | Ground Transportation Center | Family and business vehicles |
Getting to the Airport by Private Car
Indianapolis International Airport is easily accessible by car via several major highways. The airport is located just off Interstate 70 (I-70), which connects downtown Indianapolis with the airport in about 15–20 minutes.
Drivers coming from downtown should take Exit 68 from I-70, following signs for Indianapolis International Airport.
From other regional destinations:
- Bloomington: about 1 hour via IN-37 / I-69
- Lafayette: about 1 hour 15 minutes via I-65
- Cincinnati: about 2 hours via I-74
- Chicago: about 3 hours via I-65
Allow extra travel time during major events such as the Indianapolis 500, when traffic around the airport and city can increase significantly.