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AUH → LHE
Which side of the plane to sit from Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi) to Alama Iqbal International Airport (Lahore)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of the Iranian and Pakistani coastlines, including the unique geological formations of the Makran Range, and provides better lighting conditions for photography on the typical eastbound morning and afternoon schedules.
Abu Dhabi Skyline
Aerial views of the Yas Island attractions and the Saadiyat cultural district immediately following takeoff from AUH.
Strait of Hormuz
Visuals of the narrow maritime corridor and the rugged coastline of the Musandam Peninsula to the north.
Makran Coastal Range
Spectacular moon-like landscapes and folded rock formations along the Balochistan coast as the flight enters Pakistani airspace.
Indus River Basin
The massive, winding silver ribbon of the Indus River as it snakes through the fertile plains of Punjab.
Lahore Urban Center
Views of the dense urban fabric and historical landmarks of Lahore during the descent and final approach.
For the best experience, book a morning flight to keep the sun behind you, illuminating the Iranian and Pakistani mountain ranges. Look out roughly 45-60 minutes after takeoff to see the white mud volcanoes and dramatic ridges of the Hingol National Park area. In winter, be aware that morning fog (smog) in Lahore may obscure ground views, making the mid-flight mountain views your primary highlight.
Empty Quarter Edge
The rolling orange sands of the Rub' al Khali desert extending southward toward the Omani border.
Gwadar Peninsula
The iconic hammerhead-shaped peninsula and the deep-sea port projecting into the Arabian Sea.
Kirthar Range
The southern boundary of the Balochistan plateau featuring stark, arid mountain ridges.
Sindh Agriculture
The transition from desert to the lush, green patchwork of the irrigated farmlands in northern Sindh and Punjab.
Wagah Border Area
If the flight patterns require an eastern loop for landing, the border infrastructure between Pakistan and India is visible.
The right side is excellent for evening flights as you can watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea. Keep an eye out for the distinct hammerhead shape of Gwadar about halfway through the journey. If the aircraft approaches Lahore from the south, this side often provides a clearer view of the expanding suburban developments and the grand mosques of Bahria Town.
Distance: 2,090 km (1,299 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 47 min
Departure: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Arrival: LHE (31.5216007232666, 74.40360260009766)
Route Type: International
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