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SAH → AAY
Which side of the plane to sit from Sana'a International Airport (Sanaa) to Al Ghaidah International Airport (Al Ghaidah Intl)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of diverse landscapes, starting with an excellent view of Sana'a's unique architecture, followed by the rugged southern plateaus and a dramatic approach along the Arabian Sea coastline near Al Ghaidah.
Sana'a Old City
Depending on departure patterns, witness the UNESCO-listed multi-story gingerbread-style mud-brick buildings.
Ramlat al-Sab'atayn
A sea of transverse sand dunes located between the mountains and the central Hadhramaut plateau.
Arabian Sea Coast
The stunning transition where the desert cliffs drop abruptly into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
Al Ghaidah Shoreline
Pristine, undeveloped white sand beaches and coastal lagoons visible during the final descent into the airport.
Mahra Fishing Villages
Small, remote coastal settlements dotting the shoreline, highlighting the region's traditional maritime culture.
The right side is essential for the coastal approach. For midday flights, the sun is to the south, so the right side may experience glare; try to book a morning flight to have the sun behind you. Keep your camera ready during the final 15 minutes of the flight for the best shoreline views.
Sana'a Highlands
Aerial views of the rugged volcanic peaks and ancient terraced mountain slopes surrounding the capital city.
Empty Quarter Fringes
To the north, the vast orange sands of the Rub' al Khali desert become visible on the horizon during the cruise phase.
Northern Wadi Hadhramaut
The dramatic northern rim of the world's largest wadi system, featuring steep limestone cliffs and hidden canyon floors.
Al Mahrah Plateau
The high-altitude desert plateaus of eastern Yemen, characterized by deep, dry riverbeds and desolate beauty.
Sit toward the front of the wing to avoid engine glare. Early morning flights provide high-contrast shadows that define the canyon walls of Wadi Hadhramaut. Look for the faint line where the rocky desert meets the massive sand dunes of the Empty Quarter to the north.
Distance: 855 km (531 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min
Departure: SAH (15.476300239562988, 44.21969985961914)
Arrival: AAY (16.191699981689453, 52.17499923706055)
Route Type: Domestic
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