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ADD → PNR
Which side of the plane to sit from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa) to Pointe Noire Airport (Pointe-noire)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the dramatic Ethiopian Highlands, the prehistoric Omo Valley, and a more direct view of the Atlantic coastline as you descend into Pointe-Noire.
Ethiopian Highlands
Dramatic volcanic peaks and deep gorges immediately after departing Addis Ababa.
Omo Valley
Aerial views of the winding Omo River and the culturally significant rift valley floor.
Congo Basin Canopy
An endless carpet of deep green rainforest stretching to the horizon across Central Africa.
Ubangi River
The massive, meandering river that defines the border between CAR and the DRC.
Atlantic Ocean
The first glimpse of the South Atlantic Ocean as the plane banks for its final approach.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Ethiopian Great Rift Valley shortly after takeoff. For afternoon flights, this side avoids the harshest direct sunlight over the Congo Basin, allowing for better photography of the rainforest canopy and river systems.
Addis Cityscape
A sweeping view of the high-altitude capital city during the initial climb.
Sudd Wetlands
Distant views of the vast marshes in South Sudan depending on the northern drift of the flight path.
Tropical Cumulus
Stunning, massive cloud formations typical of the equatorial Intertropical Convergence Zone.
Pointe-Noire Port
Views of the industrial shipping hubs and oil infrastructure that define the local economy.
The right side is ideal for seeing the urban sprawl of Addis Ababa upon departure. During the rainy season (October-May), watch for massive lightning displays in the towering thunderheads over the rainforest, which are often visible from this side on evening flights.
Distance: 3,354 km (2,084 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 57 min
Departure: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Arrival: PNR (-4.816030025482178, 11.88659954071045)
Route Type: International
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