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ORN → HME
Which side of the plane to sit from Es Senia Airport (Oran) to Oued Irara Airport (Hassi Messaoud)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the most dramatic transition from the Mediterranean coastline to the rugged Saharan Atlas mountains and the vast, industrial oil landscapes of the Sahara desert.
Saharan Atlas
Breathtaking views of the rugged mountain barrier that separates the coastal regions from the deep Sahara.
Laghouat Oasis
A striking patch of green and urban development nestled at the foot of the desert mountains.
Oil Infrastructure
Complex networks of pipelines and industrial plants that mark the entry into Algeria's primary energy hub.
Gas Flares
During twilight or night flights, the iconic orange flames of the Hassi Messaoud oil fields are clearly visible from this side.
The right side is superior for desert photography. For the best experience, book an afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the Saharan Atlas ranges. As you approach Hassi Messaoud, look for the geometric patterns of seismic survey lines and oil well pads etched into the desert floor.
Gulf of Oran
Aerial views of the Oran harbor and the Mediterranean coastline immediately after takeoff.
Sebkha d'Oran
A massive saltwater lake south of the city that appears as a vast white or silver expanse depending on the light.
Tell Atlas Peaks
The northern mountain range offering deep valleys and green terrain before the landscape turns arid.
Grand Erg Oriental
The edge of the great eastern sand sea with rolling dunes visible on the horizon during the final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. This side is better for seeing the contrast between the coastal plains and the initial mountain ridges of the Tell Atlas. Watch for the salt flats of Sebkha d'Oran within the first 10 minutes of flight.
Distance: 764 km (475 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 16 min
Departure: ORN (35.6239013672, -0.6211829781529999)
Arrival: HME (31.673000335700003, 6.140439987180001)
Route Type: Domestic
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