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ADE → GXF
Which side of the plane to sit from Aden International Airport (Aden) to Sayun International Airport (Sayun Intl)?
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.
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.
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.
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.
Limestone Plateaus
The stark, flat-topped 'Jol' tablelands that define the harsh geography of central Yemen.
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.
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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