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JED → ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more direct view of the spectacular transition from the Arabian desert and Red Sea into the dramatic geological features of the Danakil Depression and the Great Rift Valley.
Jeddah Corniche
Aerial view of the city's waterfront and the King Fahd's Fountain immediately after takeoff from JED.
Red Sea Expanse
Deep blue waters and the distinctive coral reef systems along the Tihamah coastal plain.
Danakil Depression
Views of the Afar Triangle, featuring some of the lowest and hottest volcanic landscapes on the planet.
Great Rift Valley
A clear perspective of the massive tectonic plates pulling apart, creating a vast trench visible from cruising altitude.
Ethiopian Highlands
A sudden and dramatic rise in elevation as you approach Addis Ababa, characterized by emerald green peaks and steep cliffs.
For morning departures, the left side is ideal as the sun will be behind or above the aircraft, providing clear illumination of the African coastline. Keep your camera ready as you cross the coastline near Djibouti or Eritrea, where the desert abruptly meets the mountains. The descent into Addis Ababa on the left often provides a great view of the Entoto Hills.
Dahlak Archipelago
A stunning collection of coral islands off the coast of Massawa, Eritrea, surrounded by turquoise shallows.
Massawa Coast
The historic Eritrean port city and its surrounding industrial and naval infrastructure.
Simien Mountains
Distant views of the northern Ethiopian peaks, often capped in mist, which are home to unique endemic wildlife.
Abay Basin
Rugged terrain and deep gorges formed by the tributaries leading toward the Blue Nile.
The right side is better for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun over the African continent. This side offers better views of the island clusters in the Red Sea. Note that during the 'Kiremt' rainy season (June-August), the right side may experience more cloud cover as moisture moves in from the west.
Distance: 1,413 km (878 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 53 min
Departure: JED (21.6796, 39.156502)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: International
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