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SAH → CAI
Which side of the plane to sit from Sana'a International Airport (Sanaa) to Cairo International Airport (Cairo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of the rugged Sarawat mountain range, the expanse of the Arabian Desert, and the striking transition where the Gulf of Suez meets the Sinai Peninsula.
Sarawat Mountains
The dramatic high-altitude peaks of Yemen, including Jabal An-Nabi Shu'ayb, the highest point in the Arabian Peninsula.
Hijaz Mountains
The volcanic and granite landscapes of western Saudi Arabia that run parallel to the flight path.
Gulf of Suez
Watch for the heavy maritime traffic and tankers queuing to enter the Suez Canal.
Sinai Peninsula
Breathtaking views of the rugged, red-toned mountains of southern Sinai and the iconic St. Catherine region.
New Administrative Capital
On clear days during the approach, see Egypt's massive new city rising out of the desert east of Cairo.
Morning flights are ideal for the right side as the sun illuminates the mountain faces of Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Keep your camera ready as you cross the Gulf of Suez; the intersection of the blue water and the red Sinai mountains is a premier photo opportunity. Be aware that seasonal dust storms can occasionally obscure the desert floor.
Red Sea Coastline
Aerial views of the Tihamah coastal plain and the turquoise waters where the desert meets the sea.
Egyptian Riviera
Look down at the vibrant coral reefs and resort towns like Hurghada or Marsa Alam as you fly north.
The Nile Ribbon
During the descent, witness the sharp contrast between the lush green Nile Valley and the surrounding arid desert.
Cairo Urban Sprawl
A massive view of the dense metropolitan area and the meandering Nile river just before landing.
Sit on the left for daytime flights to minimize glare while viewing the Red Sea. During the final approach into CAI, the left side often provides better views of the Nile's fertility belt and the city's southern districts. Use a polarising filter for photos to cut through the desert haze.
Distance: 2,089 km (1,298 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 47 min
Departure: SAH (15.476300239562988, 44.21969985961914)
Arrival: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Route Type: International
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