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NIM โ ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from Diori Hamani International Airport (Niamey) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic transition from the Sahara's edge to the volcanic peaks of Sudan and the majestic northern escarpments of the Ethiopian Highlands.
Niger River Loop
A stunning view of the Niger River snaking through the arid landscape immediately after departure from Niamey.
Dallol Bosso
A giant fossil river valley that creates a distinct geological scar across the Nigerien landscape.
Bodele Depression
The world's most active source of mineral dust, appearing as shimmering white salt flats in northern Chad.
Jebel Marra
Impressive volcanic peaks and craters rising from the Darfur plateau in western Sudan.
Khartoum Confluence
The geographic spectacle where the White Nile and Blue Nile merge to form the main Nile River.
Ethiopian Escarpment
The sudden, dramatic vertical rise as the flight crosses from the Sudanese plains into the high-altitude Ethiopian plateaus.
On morning flights, the left side keeps you away from direct sun glare, which is critical for photography. Watch for the change in soil color from the orange sands of the Sahel to the dark volcanic rock of Jebel Marra. The final 45 minutes of the flight offer the most intense mountain scenery.
Lake Chad
Views of the southern basin of Lake Chad, featuring a unique mosaic of reed islands and shallow channels.
Chari River Basin
The lush green corridor of the Chari River, which provides the majority of the water flowing into Lake Chad.
Blue Nile Canyons
The right side offers incredible views of the deep, winding gorges carved by the Blue Nile as it exits the highlands.
Addis Ababa Skyline
A panoramic view of the sprawling capital city nestled at the base of the Entoto Mountains during the final descent.
Mount Entoto
The historic, forest-covered ridge that serves as the 'roof' of Addis Ababa, visible just before landing.
The right side is better for afternoon departures to avoid the sun's position. It offers the best views of the Lake Chad archipelago, which is a rare geographic feature. During the approach into Addis, keep your camera ready for the deep canyons of the Blue Nile that appear like cracks in the earth's surface.
Distance: 4,021 km (2,499 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 44 min
Departure: NIM (13.4815, 2.18361)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: International
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