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ABV → COO
Which side of the plane to sit from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (Abuja) to Cadjehoun Airport (Cotonou)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side (Starboard) is superior for this route as it offers a glimpse of the iconic Zuma Rock shortly after takeoff, views of the Niger River, and a spectacular aerial perspective of the Ganvie stilt village on Lake Nokoué during the descent into Cotonou.
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Zuma Rock
The massive monolithic inselberg known as the Gateway to Abuja, visible almost immediately after takeoff.
Niger River Crossing
A grand view of West Africa's longest river as it snakes through the savanna landscape.
Ganvie Stilt Village
The famous 'Venice of Africa' located on Lake Nokoué, featuring thousands of wooden structures on water.
Dahomey Gap
The unique geographic zone where the tropical forest gives way to savanna, reaching the coast.
Abomey-Calavi
The rapid urban expansion and red-earth architecture of the northern Cotonou metropolitan area.
The right side is essential for seeing Zuma Rock; sit near the front to avoid wing obstruction. Keep your camera ready about 10 minutes before landing for the best views of Lake Nokoué and the Ganvie village. From December to February, visibility may be significantly reduced by Harmattan dust, making early afternoon flights the best for lighting.
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Lower Niger Basin
Intricate networks of seasonal tributaries and lush wetlands south of the main river course.
Oyo Forest Reserves
Patches of dense tropical rainforest typical of South-Western Nigeria's interior.
Lagos Periphery
On clear days, the distant sprawling outskirts of Nigeria's largest economic hub are visible to the south.
Gulf of Guinea
The vast Atlantic horizon and cargo ships queuing for the Port of Cotonou during the final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is ideal for seeing the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean as the pilot maneuvers for landing at Cadjehoun Airport. During the rainy season (May to October), look for dramatic cloud formations over the Bight of Benin.
Get eSIMs for Nigeria
Get eSIMs for BeninDistance: 613 km (381 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 1 min
Departure: ABV (9.006790161132812, 7.263169765472412)
Arrival: COO (6.357230186462402, 2.384350061416626)
Route Type: International
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