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ZNZ → MBA
Which side of the plane to sit from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar) to Mombasa Moi International Airport (Mombasa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular vantage point for viewing the rugged coastline and coral reefs of Pemba Island, coupled with the deep turquoise hues of the Indian Ocean throughout this short coastal hop.
Nungwi Peninsula
A stunning aerial view of Zanzibar's northern tip with its iconic turquoise lagoons and dhow boats.
Pemba Island
The flight path often passes close to the 'Green Island', offering views of its hilly terrain and dense clove plantations.
Coral Reef Systems
Exquisite visibility of the underwater reef structures and sandbanks surrounding the Pemba Channel.
Mombasa Approach
Excellent views of the Nyali and Bamburi coastlines as the plane turns for its final descent into Moi International.
The right side is the undisputed winner for island lovers. Since the flight is very short and at a relatively low cruising altitude, keep your camera ready from the moment of takeoff. For the best photography of the coral reefs, mid-morning flights are ideal when the sun is high enough to illuminate the shallow waters without creating heavy shadows.
Tanzanian Mainline
Views of the continuous white sandy beaches and mangroves along the Tanga region coastline.
Tanga City
The historic port city of Tanga is clearly visible as the flight progresses northward along the coast.
Shimba Hills
The lush, elevated greenery of the Shimba Hills National Reserve appearing on the approach into Kenya.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. Watch for the dramatic transition from the azure ocean to the dense green tropical forests of the Kenyan mainland. On exceptionally clear days, the distant peaks of the Usambara Mountains may be visible on the western horizon.
Distance: 247 km (153 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 25 min
Departure: ZNZ (-6.22202, 39.224899)
Arrival: MBA (-4.034830093383788, 39.594200134277344)
Route Type: International
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