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$153 Cheap Flights from Indianapolis (IND) to Sacramento (SMF)

Popular airlines from Indianapolis Intl. Airport (IND) to Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF)

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Cheap Flights from Indianapolis to Sacramento (IND-SMF)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $153 for one-way flights and $245 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Delta
American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Alaska Airlines

What you need to know for your flight from Indianapolis Intl. to Sacramento Intl.

Indianapolis (IND) to Sacramento (SMF) at a glance

Travel from Indianapolis (IND) to Sacramento (SMF) with a range of airlines offering weekly flights on this domestic short-haul route. You can choose between full-service and low-cost carriers to find the flight that suits your budget and schedule best. As you prepare to explore Sacramento's iconic attractions and neighborhoods, gather all the essential details for flights departing from Indianapolis International Airport (IND) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 6h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 1,900 miles (3,060 km)
  • Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $150–$505, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Indianapolis International Airport (IND) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Indianapolis to Sacramento, featuring both non-stop and one-stop options. Common layover airports include Denver International Airport (DEN) with an approximate 1 hour and 15 minute layover, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) at about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) with a roughly 1 hour layover. This variety allows you to compare prices, total travel time, and cabin class to create your ideal itinerary.

  • Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $150 and $540. It represents around 33% of departures on this route, featuring a typical 5h 45m in-flight duration and an overall travel time of about 7h 15m.
  • American Airlines: Known for its comprehensive service, American Airlines offers one-stop journeys with one-way fares ranging from $155 to $465. It makes up about 27% of the flights along this route, with a flight time of 5h 45m and a total journey of approximately 7h 15m, including layover time.
  • Delta: Delta Airlines provides a mix of one-stop and multi-stop options, with one-way ticket prices typically between $155 and $515. It accounts for roughly 18% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 5h 45m and a full travel time nearing 7h 15m.
  • United: As a full-service airline, United offers one-stop service with one-way fares usually ranging from $155 to $575. This carrier holds about 17% of the route's departures, with a common flight time of 5h 45m and a total journey that takes around 7h 15m, including layovers.
  • Alaska Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way fares typically between $170 and $325. Alaska Airlines constitutes about 3% of the departures on this route, boasting an in-flight duration of 5h 45m and a total travel time of roughly 7h 15m, including layover.

Travelers flying from Indianapolis to Sacramento can enhance their journey by upgrading their flight. Top airlines include United, which offers first-class service; Delta, providing both first class and premium economy; and American Airlines, also featuring first class.

Best time to fly from Indianapolis (IND) to Sacramento (SMF)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Indianapolis to Sacramento are March, April, and October, when peak temperatures in Sacramento reach up to 66.4°F in October. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 54.9°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $247. Flight availability peaks in October, with approximately 21 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February has the fewest flights, with approximately 12 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: May usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $247, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: September and July typically offer average one-way fares of around $262.
  • Most flight options: October has the highest number of flights from Indianapolis to Sacramento, with approximately 21 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January48.6°F (9.2°C)Average13$289
February50.5°F (10.3°C)Moderately Low12$284
March53.6°F (12.0°C)Moderately High15$288
April59.7°F (15.4°C)Moderately High17$274
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Average20$247
June74.5°F (23.6°C)Average18$276
July77.5°F (25.3°C)Average18$263
August76.8°F (24.9°C)Moderately Low16$293
September74.5°F (23.6°C)Average15$260
October66.4°F (19.1°C)Moderately High21$283
November54.9°F (12.7°C)Moderately Low16$279
December48.4°F (9.1°C)Average17$313

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

Alternative routes from Indianapolis (IND) to Sacramento (SMF)

  • Indianapolis to Sacramento (IND-SAC): Located approximately 13 miles from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) serves as a convenient option for travelers heading to the area.
  • Indianapolis to Sacramento (IND-MHR): Sacramento Mather Airport (MHR) is around 18 miles distant from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), providing an additional route for those flying to Sacramento.
  • Terre Haute to Sacramento (HUF-SAC): Terre Haute International - Hulman Field Airport (HUF) is about 56 miles from Indianapolis International Airport (IND), while Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) is roughly 13 miles from Sacramento International Airport (SMF).

How to find the best prices for flights from Indianapolis (IND) to Sacramento (SMF)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Indianapolis to Sacramento is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book between two to eight weeks ahead. Afternoon departures from 12 PM to 6 PM often offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday generally provides cheaper options, despite Monday being the busiest travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Sacramento International Airport from Indianapolis International Airport

Sacramento welcomes travelers from Indianapolis with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Sacramento efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Sacramento, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Sacramento International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Sacramento International Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From Sacramento International Airport, Sacramento Valley Station, a train station, is located about 9 miles away, while 7th & Richards/Township 9 Station, a metro station, is approximately 8.6 miles from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $153 and cheap return flights from $245 Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $194 to $1406, and return flights typically cost between $384 and $1240. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
September is the cheapest month to fly from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.), with average round-trip fares around $370. This price is about 15% lower than the average throughout the year, as travel demand tends to decrease after the summer. Other budget-friendly months to consider are January and February.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Enter IND to SMF and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Indianapolis, IN (IND) to Sacramento, CA (SMF) with a layover in Denver Intl. (DEN), starting from around $300 for a round-trip ticket. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Indianapolis (IND) to Sacramento (SMF) is in September and January. Return flights during these months average around $370, making them a budget-friendly option. Traveling during these months means you can avoid the peak travel crowds while still enjoying a variety of flight choices.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Indianapolis International Airport (IND) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in February, March, and April, allowing you to start your day early and enjoy more time in California. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Indianapolis Intl. (IND) to Sacramento Intl. (SMF) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 36% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to start your day early and arrive in Sacramento with plenty of time to enjoy the day.
How long does it take to fly from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
A flight from IND to SMF with a layover takes around 7 hours 50 minutes, with the route covering approximately 1,879 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from IND to SMF. First class cabins are available on:

  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How do I earn miles on a Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Sacramento from Indianapolis Intl. (IND)?
From Indianapolis Intl. (IND), you can fly into Sacramento Intl. (SMF) to reach Sacramento. Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Denver Intl. (DEN), Harry Reid Intl. (LAS) before reaching Sacramento. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) Sacramento Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
If you booked your Indianapolis, IN (IND-Indianapolis Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Indianapolis Intl.
Destination airport
Sacramento Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$245
Distance
1878 mi

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