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IAD → ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is generally preferred for this route as it offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean coastline, the lush greenery of the Nile Delta contrasting with the Sahara, and a stunning sunrise over the Ethiopian Highlands before arrival.
Search flights from IAD to ADD
Atlantic Crossing
Initial views of the American East Coast followed by the vast North Atlantic expanse.
European Coastline
Views of the French or Spanish coast depending on the specific flight corridor over Europe.
Mediterranean Sea
Deep blue waters and potential glimpses of Mediterranean islands like Corsica or Sardinia.
The Nile Delta
A vivid green triangle appearing amidst the desert sands as the flight enters Egypt.
Cairo and the Nile
Aerial views of the Egyptian capital and the winding river that sustains the region.
Ethiopian Highlands
Rugged, high-altitude plateaus and deep valleys as you approach Addis Ababa.
Book a window seat on the left (typically 'A') for the best sunrise views. The transition from the Mediterranean to the African continent usually occurs during early morning; watch for the sudden appearance of the Nile. Using a polarising filter on your camera can help reduce window glare during the bright desert segments.
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Get eSIMs for EthiopiaPotomac River
Beautiful views of the Washington D.C. area and the Chesapeake Bay shortly after takeoff.
Sahara Desert
Vast stretches of orange dunes and rocky formations across Libya and Sudan.
Blue Nile
The winding path of the Blue Nile as it snakes through the Sudanese and Ethiopian landscape.
Great Rift Valley
Dramatic geological faults and ridges visible during the final descent into the capital.
Addis Ababa Skyline
A comprehensive view of the expanding city nestled at the foot of Mount Entoto.
Select a window seat on the right (typically 'L') to avoid direct sunlight during the southbound leg of the journey. This side is particularly good for observing the geological wonders of the Rift Valley during the daytime descent. Keep your camera ready for the unique color gradients of the Sudanese desert mid-flight.
Book Hotels in Addis AbabaDistance: 11,563 km (7,185 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 36 min
Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: International
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