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ORN → GHA
Which side of the plane to sit from Es Senia Airport (Oran) to Noumérat - Moufdi Zakaria Airport (Ghardaia)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the most dramatic views of the vast Sebkha d'Oran salt lake immediately after takeoff and the best angle for the UNESCO-listed architecture of the M'Zab Valley on approach.
Sebkha d'Oran
A massive, shimmering salt lake located just south of Oran, visible almost immediately after departure.
Saharan Atlas
The flight crosses the rugged, arid peaks of the Djebel Amour, part of the southern mountain barrier.
Grand Erg Occidental
Glimpse the eastern edge of the Great Western Erg, a massive sea of rolling sand dunes.
Ghardaia Pentapolis
The highlight of the flight: the five ancient fortified cities of the M'Zab Valley clustered together.
Ancient Ksour
Aerial view of the traditional Saharan mud-brick architecture and palm groves surrounding the valley.
Sit on the right for the spectacular view of Sebkha d'Oran during takeoff. During the winter months, the visibility is often clearer, allowing for better views of the Saharan Atlas peaks. The late afternoon sun creates beautiful shadows over the M'Zab Valley, highlighting its unique urban layout. Choose a window seat away from the wing for an unobstructed view of the desert towns.
Mediterranean Recedes
As the plane climbs, catch a final glimpse of the blue Mediterranean and the Oran coastline to the north.
Tell Atlas Slopes
The initial part of the journey passes over the greener ridges of the northern mountain belt.
High Plateaus
The vast semi-arid plains between the two Atlas ranges, showing a patchwork of seasonal agriculture.
Saharan Transition
Watch the landscape change from steppe to the deep orange and beige hues of the northern Sahara.
El Atteuf
On the final approach, the easternmost town of the M'Zab Pentapolis becomes visible with its distinct minaret.
The left side is perfect for mid-day flights as it avoids direct Saharan glare. Keep an eye out for the transition from the green Tell Atlas to the arid High Plateaus, which is a clear geographical marker of the flight's midpoint. This side offers better views of the Saharan fringe when flying in the late afternoon.
Distance: 543 km (337 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 54 min
Departure: ORN (35.6239013672, -0.6211829781529999)
Arrival: GHA (32.38410186767578, 3.7941100597381583)
Route Type: Domestic
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