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AMH â ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from Arba Minch Airport (Arba Minch) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled front-row seat to the sequence of Great Rift Valley lakes and the dramatic western escarpment cliffs as the flight heads north.
Lake Chamo
See the bright blue waters and the shores of Nechisar National Park immediately after departure.
Western Rift Wall
A massive geological fault line featuring dramatic drop-offs and jagged cliffs defining the valley edge.
Lake Langano
Recognizable by its unique copper-colored sandy beaches and popular resort areas along the shoreline.
Lake Ziway
The northernmost major Rift Valley lake, famous for its birdlife and historic islands.
Mount Zuqualla
An impressive extinct volcano with a circular crater lake visible as you approach the capital.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid intense sun glare reflecting off the water surfaces. The best scenery occurs in the first 20 minutes and the final 10 minutes of the flight. Watch closely for the transition from the arid valley floor to the lush green highlands of central Ethiopia.
Lake Abaya
Witness the massive, iron-rich reddish-brown waters stretching out to the north of Arba Minch.
Hawassa City
A clear view of the growing urban center and its distinct circular lake visible mid-flight.
Bale Mountains
In the far distance to the east, catch a glimpse of the high-altitude Afro-alpine plateaus.
Bishoftu Crater Lakes
Perfectly circular volcanic crater lakes located just south of Addis Ababa during the descent.
Addis Ababa Skyline
View the sprawling urban development and high-rises of Africa's diplomatic capital upon arrival.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to catch the golden hour light hitting the eastern escarpment and the Bale Mountains. Keep an eye out for the reddish hue of Lake Abaya shortly after takeoff, which contrasts sharply with the surrounding greenery during the rainy season.
Distance: 353 km (219 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: AMH (6.0393900871276855, 37.59049987792969)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: Domestic
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