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MQX → ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from Mekele Airport (Makale) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a front-row seat to the Great Rift Valley escarpment, where the Ethiopian Highlands drop dramatically toward the Afar Triangle.
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Afar Escarpment
The sharp geographical transition where the central plateau falls away into the lowlands of the Danakil region.
Lake Hayq
A stunning high-altitude freshwater lake located near Dessie, visible as a sapphire gem amidst the rugged terrain.
Raya Valley
Expansive and fertile agricultural plains nestled between the eastern edge of the highlands and the rift.
Rift Valley Faults
Visible tectonic lines and ridges that define the geography of East Africa's splitting crust.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun while enjoying the best depth perception of the escarpment. Look for the distinct color change from the green highlands to the hazy, arid lowlands of the east. Keep an eye out for Lake Hayq roughly 25-30 minutes into the flight.
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Tigray Ambas
Unique flat-topped mountain formations (ambas) and steep sandstone cliffs characteristic of northern Ethiopia.
Lasta Mountains
The high-altitude peaks surrounding Lalibela, showing the extreme ruggedness of the Amhara region.
Bashilo River Canyons
Deeply carved river valleys and gorges that feed into the Blue Nile drainage system.
Entoto Hills
The eucalyptus-covered ridges that overlook Addis Ababa during the final approach into Bole International.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun illuminates the western faces of the canyons and peaks. This side offers a better view of the high-altitude rural settlements and the dense forests of the Entoto Mountains just before landing. During the rainy season (June-September), this side offers views of spectacular waterfalls over the plateau edges.
Book Hotels in Addis AbabaDistance: 506 km (314 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 51 min
Departure: MQX (13.467399597167969, 39.53350067138672)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: Domestic
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