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ADD → LLW
Which side of the plane to sit from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa) to Lilongwe International Airport (Lilongwe)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side provides the most consistent views of the Great Rift Valley's dramatic geology, volcanic craters, and the string of alkaline lakes that define the East African landscape.
Great Rift Valley
Dramatic views of the Earth's crust pulling apart, featuring steep escarpments and deep valley floors.
Lake Turkana
Known as the 'Jade Sea,' this stunning turquoise desert lake is visible if the flight path tracks slightly westward over Kenya.
Rift Valley Lakes
A spectacular chain of Ethiopian lakes including Abaya and Chamo, often appearing bright green or reddish.
Lake Malawi (Western Shore)
During the descent into Lilongwe, enjoy stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches of the Malawian shoreline.
Lilongwe Plateau
The final approach offers a bird's-eye view of Malawi's 'Garden City' surrounded by tobacco and maize fields.
The right side is unbeatable for afternoon flights, as the 'golden hour' light beautifully highlights the textures of the Rift Valley escarpments. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing to see the volcanic craters in the Omo Valley region of Ethiopia.
Bale Mountains
The high-altitude plateau of Ethiopia, home to unique Afro-alpine flora and fauna shortly after takeoff.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
On clear days, the snow-capped peak of Africa's highest mountain is visible in the distant eastern horizon over Tanzania.
Southern Highlands
Lush, rolling hills and agricultural landscapes of southern Tanzania as the plane heads toward the Malawian border.
Lake Malawi (Eastern Horizon)
Expansive views of the northern tip of the lake and the high mountains of the Livingstone Range in Tanzania.
Select the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. Keep your eyes peeled roughly halfway through the flight for a distant glimpse of Kilimanjaro. A seat behind the wing is recommended for the best photographic angles of the mountain ranges.
Distance: 2,591 km (1,610 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 27 min
Departure: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Arrival: LLW (-13.7894001007, 33.78099823)
Route Type: International
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