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ILR → ABV
Which side of the plane to sit from Ilorin International Airport (Ilorin) to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (Abuja)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Federal Capital Territory's major landmarks, including Aso Rock and the planned city layout, especially during the final descent into Abuja.
Middle Belt Terrain
Observe the transition from the rolling hills of Kwara to the more rugged and rocky topography of the Federal Capital Territory.
Aso Rock
The most prominent landmark of the capital, a massive 400-meter monolith that looms over the Presidential Villa.
National Landmarks
Clear views of the iconic golden dome of the National Mosque and the architectural spire of the National Christian Centre.
Abuja Skyline
A comprehensive view of the organized grid system of the Central Business District and its modern high-rises during the final approach.
Choose the right side for flights arriving in the late afternoon, as the setting sun illuminates Aso Rock and the city skyline with a warm glow. This side is consistently better for seeing the iconic architecture of the capital's heart. On clear days, you may also see the distant hills of the Jos Plateau to the far east.
Ilorin Suburbs
Aerial view of the University of Ilorin campus and the surrounding Kwara plains shortly after takeoff.
Niger River Crossing
The flight path crosses the Niger River near the town of Pategi, offering views of the river's extensive basin and floodplains.
Zuma Rock
This massive igneous intrusion is commonly visible on the left side during a standard northern arrival pattern into the capital.
Morning flights are best to avoid the afternoon haze common in central Nigeria. Keep your camera ready about 25-30 minutes into the flight for the Niger River crossing. During the harmattan season (December to February), visibility can be significantly reduced by dust, so mid-morning flights are usually clearest.
Distance: 311 km (193 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 31 min
Departure: ILR (8.440210342407228, 4.493919849395752)
Arrival: ABV (9.006790161132812, 7.263169765472412)
Route Type: Domestic
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