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AHB → TIF
Which side of the plane to sit from Abha Regional Airport (Abha) to Ta’if Regional Airport (Taif)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Sarawat Mountain escarpment, providing views of steep vertical drops, coastal plains, and the Red Sea horizon.
Asir Escarpment
Dramatic cliffs and jagged peaks that drop sharply from the high plateau down to the coastal lowlands.
The Aqabat Roads
Intricate, zig-zagging mountain passes carved into the cliffside connecting the highlands to the Tihamah region.
Red Sea Horizon
On clear days, the distant blue expanse of the Red Sea is visible beyond the coastal Tihamah plain.
Sea of Clouds
Frequent morning mist and cloud formations trapped against the mountain peaks, creating a surreal white carpet.
Jabal Sawda
Glimpses of the highest peaks in Saudi Arabia shortly after departure from Abha.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the eastern sun. This side is superior for viewing the dramatic verticality of the terrain. Look out immediately after takeoff as the plane follows the mountain ridge northward. If flying in winter or spring, look for greenery on the upper slopes.
Khamis Mushait
The dense urban layout and airbase of Abha's sister city visible shortly after takeoff.
High Plateaus
The expansive, flatter terrain of the Arabian Shield extending eastward toward the center of the kingdom.
Wadi Systems
Dry riverbeds and seasonal watercourses that create intricate patterns across the desert landscape.
Taif Orchards
The agricultural belts and rose fields surrounding Taif as the flight begins its final descent.
The right side is best for afternoon flights to keep the sun behind you, illuminating the landscape. It provides a better sense of the scale of the Arabian interior. Keep an eye out for the distinct transition from high mountain desert to the fertile valleys surrounding Taif during the approach.
Distance: 423 km (263 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 42 min
Departure: AHB (18.2404003143, 42.65660095210001)
Arrival: TIF (21.483001, 40.543442)
Route Type: Domestic
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