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COO → NIM
Which side of the plane to sit from Cadjehoun Airport (Cotonou) to Diori Hamani International Airport (Niamey)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most diverse scenery, featuring the expansive Lake Nokoué shortly after takeoff, the dense greenery of the W National Park, and a spectacular view of the Niger River winding through the arid landscape upon descent into Niamey.
Lake Nokoué
The large coastal lagoon known for its vibrant ecosystem and the nearby Ganvié water community.
W National Park
Aerial views of the massive trans-border park, showing the diverse vegetation of the savannah.
Niger River Bend
The majestic river appearing as a blue-green ribbon against the dry Saharan terrain.
Niamey Bridges
Excellent views of the Kennedy and Martyrs bridges as the flight aligns with the runway at Diori Hamani.
The right side is the clear winner for river views. For the best photography, fly during the rainy season (June to September) when the W National Park is vibrant green and the Niger River is at its fullest. During the Harmattan season (December to February), visibility can be significantly reduced by dust, so a window seat mid-morning is preferable.
Gulf of Guinea
Expansive views of the Atlantic coastline and the Cotonou port area during the initial climb.
Cotonou Grid
A detailed look at the bustling streets and urban layout of Benin's largest city.
Atakora Foothills
The distant silhouettes of the rugged mountain ranges in the northwestern part of Benin.
Sahel Transition
Watch the landscape change from lush coastal greenery to the characteristic red earth and scrub of the Sahel.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the rising sun. This side provides a great perspective of the transition between climate zones, particularly as you approach the drier regions of southern Niger. Keep an eye out for the small, scattered settlements that dot the Beninese interior.
Distance: 792 km (492 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min
Departure: COO (6.357230186462402, 2.384350061416626)
Arrival: NIM (13.4815, 2.18361)
Route Type: International
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