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ABV → CBQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (Abuja) to Margaret Ekpo International Airport (Calabar)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side provides the most scenic entry into the Cross River basin, offering spectacular views of the Benue River crossing and the dense, lush rainforests of the national park area.
Zuma Rock View
If the flight departs towards the north before banking south, you get a majestic profile of the 'Gateway to Abuja'.
Benue River Crossing
A wide, shimmering view of one of Nigeria's largest rivers as the plane traverses the Middle Belt.
Obudu Foothills
Distant glimpses of the rising highlands and mist-shrouded peaks near the Cameroonian border.
Cross River Rainforest
A breathtaking expanse of deep green canopy, representing some of the last primary rainforest in West Africa.
Calabar River Meanders
The intricate, winding silver ribbons of the Calabar River as it snakes through dense mangroves on final approach.
Morning flights (7 AM - 10 AM) are highly recommended to avoid the heavy afternoon tropical cloud cover. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes after takeoff for the Benue River crossing. During the rainy season (May-September), the vegetation is incredibly vibrant, but turbulence is more common.
Abuja Cityscape
Excellent views of the National Mosque and the planned layout of the Central Business District during ascent.
Udi Hills
Aerial perspective of the rugged escarpments and valleys surrounding the Enugu coal mining regions.
Ebonyi Rice Plains
Vast, patchwork-like agricultural fields and inland wetlands characterizing the southeastern landscape.
Akamkpa Quarries
Distinctive white limestone excavations and industrial sites carved into the green landscape.
Calabar Estuary
The widening mouth of the Great Kwa River as it merges into the Atlantic horizon just before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset reflecting off the various river tributaries in the south. On approach to Calabar, look for the 'Canning City' layout. Be aware that the Harmattan haze (December-February) can significantly reduce visibility on this side.
Distance: 464 km (288 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 46 min
Departure: ABV (9.006790161132812, 7.263169765472412)
Arrival: CBQ (4.976019859313965, 8.347200393676758)
Route Type: Domestic
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