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FCO → ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the Italian coastline and Sicily, followed by the most dramatic views of the Simien Mountains and the approach into the Ethiopian Highlands.
Search flights from FCO to ADD
Mount Etna
On clear days, see the smoking peak of Europe's most active volcano as you pass Sicily.
Mediterranean Crossing
Vast turquoise views as the flight transitions from the European coast to the North African shoreline.
Nubian Desert
Golden sand dunes and desolate mountain ranges across northern Sudan.
Simien Mountains
Stunning views of the UNESCO-listed peaks and deep valleys of the Ethiopian plateau.
Addis Ababa Skyline
A comprehensive view of the rapidly growing capital city during the final descent into Bole Airport.
On the typical overnight schedule, the left side receives the first light of dawn. This is ideal for photographing the Ethiopian Highlands, but be prepared for high-contrast lighting. Aim for a seat in front of the wing for unobstructed views of the terrain.
Get eSIMs for Italy
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Libyan Coastline
The entry point into Africa, showing the stark contrast between the sea and the arid desert.
Sahara Expanse
Hours of mesmerizing views over the vast Libyan and Sudanese desert landscapes.
The Blue Nile
Spot the winding path of the river as it cuts through the rocky Sudanese terrain toward Ethiopia.
Blue Nile Gorge
Dramatic aerial views of one of Africa's most impressive canyon systems in the highlands.
Highland Plateaus
The patchwork of terraced farms and rural villages characteristic of central Ethiopia.
The right side is better for avoiding direct glare during morning arrivals. It offers excellent views of the deep canyons of the Blue Nile. Seasonal cloud cover is common in the highlands from June to September, which may obscure the ground during the final hour.
Book Hotels in Addis AbabaDistance: 4,481 km (2,784 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 16 min
Departure: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: International
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