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BKO ā ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from Modibo Keita International Airport (Bamako) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition between the Sahara Desert and the Sahel, featuring ancient volcanic massifs in Chad and Sudan before a stunning approach into the Ethiopian Highlands.
Sahara Desert Fringes
Breathtaking views of the golden sand dunes and rocky plateaus of northern Mali and Niger.
AĆÆr Mountains
Dramatic dark volcanic peaks rising from the desert floor in central Niger.
Lake Chad
A glimpse of the historic, shallow lake and its intricate network of green islands and wetlands.
Ennedi Massif
Stunning sandstone formations and deep canyons in northeastern Chad, visible in the distance.
Jebel Marra
The massive volcanic range in Sudan, featuring the impressive Deriba caldera.
Northern Ethiopian Highlands
The rugged, jagged peaks and deep plateaus that characterize the approach to Addis Ababa.
The left side (North) is ideal for avoiding the harsh direct sunlight of the southern sky. For day flights, this side provides better visibility of the Sahara's geological textures. Aim for a morning departure to see the sunrise illuminate the Ethiopian peaks upon arrival. Note that visibility can be reduced by Harmattan dust from November to March.
Inland Niger Delta
Lush green floodplains of the Niger River shortly after takeoff from Bamako.
Jos Plateau
The elevated, rocky granite landscapes of central Nigeria.
Benue River Valley
Aerial views of the winding Benue River as it snakes across the West African landscape.
White Nile Basin
Distant views of the complex water systems bordering South Sudan and Sudan.
Western Ethiopian Escarpment
The dramatic vertical rise from the Sudanese plains into the high Ethiopian plateau.
The right side (South) offers more greenery and river systems compared to the desert views on the left. However, you will face the sun for most of the West-to-East flight, which can cause glare and heat. Keep your window shade down during the mid-flight segment and open it as the plane begins its steep ascent into the lush Ethiopian mountains.
Distance: 5,116 km (3,179 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 1 min
Departure: BKO (12.5335, -7.94994)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: International
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