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BZV → ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from Maya-Maya Airport (Brazzaville) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer views of the dense Congo Basin, the Right Side provides a superior angle of the Congo River upon departure and the breathtaking geological formations of the Great Rift Valley and Omo Valley during the descent into Ethiopia.
The Congo River
A stunning aerial view of the massive Congo River just after takeoff from Brazzaville, showing the divide between the two Congos.
Great Rift Valley
As the plane approaches Addis Ababa, view the massive tectonic trench that characterizes the East African landscape.
Omo Valley
The rugged and culturally significant Omo Valley features unique geological colors and ancient riverbeds.
Rift Valley Lakes
Spot a chain of volcanic lakes such as Lake Abaya or Lake Chamo shimmering in the Ethiopian sun.
Addis Ababa Skyline
The final approach often circles over the sprawling capital, offering views of the Entoto Mountains and the city's rapid expansion.
Sit on the right for the most iconic views. The descent into Addis is spectacular; the lighting is usually best on this side during the afternoon, illuminating the red earth of the Ethiopian Highlands. For the best photos of the Congo River at takeoff, choose a seat behind the wing to avoid engine glare.
Congo Rainforest Canopy
Infinite stretches of the world's second-largest tropical rainforest, appearing as a deep green velvet carpet.
Ubangi River Meanders
Watch the silver ribbons of the Ubangi River as it winds through the northern Congolese border regions.
South Sudanese Savanna
The landscape transitions from dense jungle to the golden-brown plains and wetlands of the upper Nile region.
Western Ethiopian Escarpment
Dramatic rising terrain as the aircraft enters Ethiopian airspace, featuring sharp ridges and deep valleys.
The left side is excellent for observing the transition between ecological zones. Aim for a morning departure to avoid the thick convective clouds that typically form over the rainforest by mid-afternoon. Keep an eye out for the white-water rapids of northern tributaries.
Distance: 2,996 km (1,862 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs
Departure: BZV (-4.251699924468993, 15.253000259399414)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: International
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