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COO → ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from Cadjehoun Airport (Cotonou) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular traversal of Africa's most diverse biomes, including the Niger Delta, the fringes of the Congo rainforest, the Sudd wetlands, and the dramatic Great Rift Valley.
Niger Delta
A sprawling network of rivers, mangroves, and industrial infrastructure at the heart of Nigeria's coastline.
Mount Cameroon
In clear weather, the massive silhouette of West Africa's highest peak can be seen to the south.
Congo Basin Fringes
The northern edge of the world's second-largest rainforest, appearing as an endless deep green carpet.
The White Nile
The serpentine curves of the White Nile winding through the vast Sudd wetlands in South Sudan.
Great Rift Valley
Stunning geological fault lines and crater lakes visible as the aircraft approaches the Ethiopian capital.
Omo Valley Foothills
The rugged southern reaches of the Ethiopian Plateau known for its unique cultural and natural history.
The right side is generally superior for geographic diversity. On morning flights, the sun will be ahead and to the right, so window shades may be needed, but the view of the Nile and the Rift Valley lakes during the descent into Addis Ababa is unparalleled. Look for the glint of the Sudd wetlands in South Sudan, which are especially vibrant during the rainy season (May-October).
Cotonou and Porto-Novo
Aerial view of the Benin coastline and the Nokoué lagoon complex immediately after takeoff.
Nigerian Savannah
The transition from tropical coastal vegetation to the vast, open guinea savannah of central Nigeria.
Jos Plateau
Distant views of the rocky outcrops and volcanic landforms of the high plateau in central Nigeria.
Blue Nile Basin
Dramatic canyons and eroded landscapes carved by the tributaries of the Blue Nile as you enter Ethiopia.
Entoto Mountains
The high eucalyptus-covered ridges surrounding Addis Ababa during the final descent.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun. This side provides a clearer view of the rugged escarpments as the plane crosses from South Sudan into the Ethiopian Highlands. Keep an eye out for the Chari River system while crossing the Central African Republic.
Distance: 4,022 km (2,499 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 44 min
Departure: COO (6.357230186462402, 2.384350061416626)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: International
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