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ADD → COO
Which side of the plane to sit from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa) to Cadjehoun Airport (Cotonou)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the diverse African landscape, from the dramatic Ethiopian Highlands to the lush rainforests of Central Africa and the final approach along the Atlantic coastline of the Gulf of Guinea.
Ethiopian Highlands
Immediately after takeoff from Addis Ababa, view the rugged, high-altitude plateaus and deep gorges of the Amhara and Oromia regions.
White Nile Confluence
Watch for the vast wetlands and the winding path of the White Nile as it traverses the South Sudanese plains.
Congolese Basin Fringe
The route skims the northern edge of the massive Central African rainforest, showing a sea of deep emerald green canopy.
Niger River Delta
As you enter Nigerian airspace, the intricate network of tributaries leading toward the Atlantic becomes visible.
Gulf of Guinea
During the final descent into Cotonou, enjoy panoramic views of the turquoise Atlantic waters and the long sandy beaches of the Slave Coast.
Book a window seat on the left (A or K depending on aircraft) for flights departing in the morning to avoid the direct southern glare. On approach to Cotonou (COO), the aircraft often flies parallel to the coast, providing a stunning view of the shoreline and the city's lagoons. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing.
Blue Nile Basin
Catch a glimpse of the powerful Blue Nile as it carves its way northwest through northern Ethiopia toward Sudan.
Sahel Transition Zone
Observe the fascinating shift in geography from the green highlands to the semi-arid landscapes of the southern Sahel.
Jos Plateau
As you cross central Nigeria, the unique rock formations and high plains of the Jos Plateau are visible to the north.
Abuja Distant Horizon
On clear days, the outskirts of Nigeria's capital and the prominent Zuma Rock can be spotted in the distance.
Cotonou Urban Sprawl
Views of the dense urban layout of Cotonou and the expansive Lake Nokoué during the final turn for landing.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, reducing window glare. This side provides a better perspective of the vastness of the African interior and the transition toward the Sahara. During harmattan season (December to February), visibility might be reduced by dust, so look for landmarks directly below the plane rather than on the horizon.
Distance: 4,022 km (2,499 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 44 min
Departure: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Arrival: COO (6.357230186462402, 2.384350061416626)
Route Type: International
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