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AUH → ICN
Which side of the plane to sit from Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi) to Incheon International Airport (Seoul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers unparalleled views of the dramatic Tien Shan mountain range and the vast expanse of the Gobi Desert, typically bathed in optimal morning light.
Abu Dhabi Skyline
Panoramic views of the Corniche, Yas Island, and the Saadiyat Island cultural district immediately after takeoff.
Alborz Mountains
Dramatic snow-capped peaks of Northern Iran, including Mount Damavand if the flight path tracks northward.
Caspian Sea Coast
The southern shoreline of the world's largest inland sea, showing the transition from desert to lush greenery.
Tien Shan Range
The 'Celestial Mountains' of Central Asia, featuring jagged peaks and glacial valleys across Kyrgyzstan and China.
Gobi Desert
The vast, undulating gravel plains and dunes of the northern Gobi as the flight traverses Northern China.
For the typical overnight departure from AUH, the left side will catch the first light of dawn over Central Asia. Keep your window shade up as you cross the border into China to witness the sunrise illuminating the Tien Shan glaciers. Use a high-altitude map to identify the unique 'Star Dune' formations in the desert regions.
Persian Gulf Islands
Excellent views of the artificial islands and bustling ports along the UAE and Omani coastlines.
Dasht-e Lut
The UNESCO-listed salt desert in Iran, known for its surreal 'Kalut' rock formations and intense heat haze.
Tibetan Plateau Fringe
The northern edge of the 'Roof of the World,' showcasing high-altitude arid landscapes and salt lakes.
Loess Plateau
The unique silty landscape of the Yellow River basin, characterized by intense terracing and erosion patterns.
Incheon Bridge
A stunning view of one of the world's longest cable-stayed bridges during the final approach into Seoul.
The right side is ideal for capturing the golden hour if departing during a late afternoon window. During the descent into ICN, the right side usually offers a superior view of the Incheon archipelago and the massive container ships navigating the Yellow Sea. Be prepared for turbulent air when crossing the coastal mountains of Korea.
Distance: 6,837 km (4,248 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 3 min
Departure: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Arrival: ICN (37.46910095214844, 126.45099639892578)
Route Type: International
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