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ZRH destination photo
CAI destination photo

ZRHCAI

Which side of the plane to sit from Zürich Airport (Zurich) to Cairo International Airport (Cairo)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the high Swiss Alps shortly after takeoff and provides a better chance to see the Great Pyramids of Giza on the final approach into Cairo.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Central Swiss Alps

Spectacular views of the Bernese Oberland, including peaks like the Tödi and the glaciated high-altitude terrain.

🇮🇹

Adriatic Sea

Views of the Italian coastline and the deep blue expanse of the Adriatic as you head southeast.

⛰️

Crete

The mountainous terrain of Greece's largest island, often visible during the mid-flight crossing of the Mediterranean.

📐

Pyramids of Giza

On the standard northern approach into CAI, the right side often catches a glimpse of the Giza plateau and the Great Pyramids.

Choose the right side for the best chance to see the Pyramids during descent; they will appear on the horizon as the plane banks toward the airport. For the best Alpine views, ensure you are seated behind the wing to avoid obstruction. This side is most scenic during midday flights when the sun is high.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

Eastern Swiss Alps

Aerial views of the Säntis massif and the rugged peaks of the Glarus Alps immediately following departure.

🌊

Dalmatian Coast

The intricate coastline of Croatia, featuring thousands of islands and turquoise waters along the Adriatic.

🏝️

Aegean Islands

A scattered mosaic of Greek islands such as Mykonos or Santorini as the flight crosses the Mediterranean.

🌿

Nile Delta

The stark contrast between the barren desert and the lush, green fan of the fertile Nile Delta upon entering Egyptian airspace.

Sit on the left if you are on a morning flight to avoid the harshest sun. This side is also excellent for viewing the sunrise over the Mediterranean if taking an early red-eye. Keep an eye out for the twinkling lights of coastal Balkan cities during night flights.

Top Activities in Cairo
Route Information

Distance: 2,745 km (1,706 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 40 min

Departure: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Arrival: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)

Route Type: International

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