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ADE destination photo
GXF destination photo

ADEGXF

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers an unparalleled perspective of the transition from the turquoise Gulf of Aden to the dramatic, deep-cut limestone canyons of the Wadi Hadhramaut.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Gulf of Aden

Stunning aerial views of the deep blue coastline and the white sand beaches stretching toward Abyan.

🏜️

Wadi Hadhramaut Entrance

The dramatic point where the flat desert gives way to massive, winding canyon systems.

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Shibam Skyline

The legendary 'Manhattan of the Desert,' featuring 16th-century mud-brick skyscrapers rising from the valley floor.

🌴

Hadhrami Oases

Lush green ribbons of date palms that provide a stark contrast to the ochre-colored canyon walls.

🛕

Sayun Palaces

The bright white facade of the Sultan Al-Kathiri Palace visible as the aircraft aligns for its final approach.

The right side is essential for seeing the historic city of Shibam during the descent into Sayun. Request a seat ahead of or well behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the canyon floor. High-noon flights can be hazy, so early morning departures are preferred for clear visibility of the mud-brick architecture.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌋

Aden Volcanic Ring

View the ancient volcanic caldera and the rugged peaks of Jabal Shamsan immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Western Highlands

Distant silhouettes of the jagged Sarawat mountain range extending toward the Yemeni interior.

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Limestone Plateaus

The stark, flat-topped 'Jol' tablelands that define the harsh geography of central Yemen.

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High Altitude Ruins

Ancient stone structures and small mountain outposts perched precariously on the edges of the plateau.

Sit on the left for the best views of the volcanic formations surrounding Aden during departure. Morning flights provide the best lighting to capture the shadows in the high mountain crevices. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff as the plane turns inland.

Top Activities in Sayun Intl
Route Information

Distance: 534 km (332 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 53 min

Departure: ADE (12.829500198364258, 45.02880096435547)

Arrival: GXF (15.9660997391, 48.78829956049999)

Route Type: Domestic

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