Loading map...
AUH → MAA
Which side of the plane to sit from Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi) to Chennai International Airport (Madras)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the UAE coastline and the Gulf of Oman during departure, followed by a scenic entry over the lush Indian coastline and the metropolitan outskirts of Bangalore.
Abu Dhabi Skyline
Panoramic views of the capital's skyscrapers and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque during initial climb.
Gulf of Oman
Clear views of the turquoise waters and the rugged northern mountain ranges of the Musandam Peninsula.
Konkan Coastline
The first sight of India, featuring white sandy beaches and the meeting of the Arabian Sea with the mainland.
Western Ghats
Dramatic views of the UNESCO-listed mountain range, covered in dense tropical forests and mist.
Bangalore Urban Sprawl
Visualizing the dense urban layout and tech parks of India's Silicon Valley as you transit toward the east coast.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare, providing better conditions for photography of the Indian landscape. During landing in Chennai (Runway 07), this side often provides views of the city's northern residential areas.
Rub' al Khali Edge
The rolling orange dunes of the Empty Quarter desert visible shortly after takeoff from Abu Dhabi.
Al Hajar Mountains
The jagged, dark peaks of the Omani mountain range cutting through the desert landscape.
Arabian Sea Shipping Lanes
Spotting large tankers and cargo vessels navigating one of the world's busiest maritime routes.
Nilgiri Biosphere
Views of the southern portion of the Western Ghats, known for tea plantations and diverse ecosystems.
Tamil Nadu Plains
The vibrant patchwork of agricultural fields and temple towns typical of the South Indian interior.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Arabian Sea. Keep an eye out for the shimmering reflection of the sun on the water. As you approach Chennai, you may see the Palar River and the industrial corridors south of the city.
Distance: 2,966 km (1,843 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 57 min
Departure: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Arrival: MAA (12.990005493164062, 80.16929626464844)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.