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CAI → ATZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Cairo International Airport (Cairo) to Assiut International Airport (Asyut)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unparalleled sequence of ancient Egyptian monuments, including the Giza Pyramids and the Saqqara Necropolis, shortly after takeoff, followed by the dramatic contrast of the Western Desert.
Great Pyramids of Giza
The most iconic aerial view in the world; see Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure rising from the desert sands shortly after takeoff.
Necropolis of Saqqara
Spot the Step Pyramid of Djoser and the Unas Pyramid complex from a unique top-down perspective.
Dahshur Pyramids
The Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid are clearly visible as the flight path continues south along the desert edge.
Fayum Oasis & Lake Qarun
A massive green depression in the desert featuring a large saltwater lake, visible to the west of the main route.
Sahara Sand Dunes
Witness the mesmerizing, wind-swept patterns of the Western Desert's sand seas as you approach Assiut.
Sit on the right side and have your camera ready immediately after wheels-up from Cairo. The Pyramids appear very quickly. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the western faces of the monuments and the desert dunes, providing excellent shadows and depth for photography.
Greater Cairo Skyline
View the massive urban expanse of Cairo and the Mokattam Hills as the aircraft climbs to cruising altitude.
The Nile Corridor
Observe the winding Nile River and the thin strip of lush green vegetation that has sustained life for millennia.
Eastern Desert Plateaus
Rugged limestone formations and wadis stretching out toward the Red Sea mountain range in the distance.
Upper Egypt Farmland
Intricate patchwork of agricultural plots near Minya and Mallawi, showcasing traditional Egyptian farming layouts.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun over the Sahara. This side is better for observing the dense population centers along the riverbank and the industrial zones on the eastern edge of the valley.
Distance: 344 km (214 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 34 min
Departure: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Arrival: ATZ (27.0464992523, 31.0119991302)
Route Type: Domestic
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