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BEY → EBL
Which side of the plane to sit from Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport (Beirut) to Erbil International Airport (Erbil)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the Mediterranean coastline to the highest peaks of the Mount Lebanon range, followed by the lush Beqaa Valley and the historic Tigris River approach.
Mediterranean Coast
Stunning aerial views of the Beirut shoreline and the deep blue sea immediately after takeoff.
Northern Mount Lebanon
The highest peaks of the Levant, including Qurnat as Sawda, which remains snow-capped well into spring.
Beqaa Valley
A patchwork of green and gold agricultural fields nestled between the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon ranges.
Syrian Steppe
The vast, arid landscapes of northern Syria, showing the harsh beauty of the high desert.
Euphrates River
The silver ribbon of the Euphrates winding through the desert landscape near the Syrian-Iraqi border.
Mosul & Tigris
Views of the historic city of Mosul and the Tigris River as the flight begins its descent toward Erbil.
For the best photography of the mountain ranges, book a mid-morning flight to ensure the sun is high enough to illuminate the valleys but low enough to create depth. During winter, the contrast between the white snow on the mountains and the blue sea is spectacular. Sit away from the wing for an unobstructed view of the Tigris during the final 20 minutes of the flight.
Central Beirut
A panoramic view of the capital's dense urban layout and the bustling Port of Beirut.
Mount Hermon
The majestic, multi-peaked Mount Hermon is often visible to the south on clear days.
Syrian Desert (Badia)
The expansive and desolate beauty of the central desert plains stretching toward the horizon.
Haditha Dam Reservoir
The large, deep blue waters of Lake Qadisiya appearing as a desert mirage in western Iraq.
Great Zab River
The fertile greenery surrounding the Great Zab river as you enter the Kurdistan region.
Erbil Citadel
On a southern approach, you may catch a glimpse of the ancient, circular Citadel at the heart of Erbil.
Evening flights on the right side provide a beautiful sunset view over the desert, though glare can be an issue. If flying in the morning, the desert textures are highly defined by long shadows. Keep an eye out for the distinct circular irrigation patterns that appear like green polka dots in the middle of the arid Iraqi plains.
Distance: 817 km (508 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: BEY (33.820899963378906, 35.488399505615234)
Arrival: EBL (36.23759841918945, 43.96319961547852)
Route Type: International
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