Left side scores higher due to the dramatic Ethiopian highlands during departure and the sustained scenic variety of the Mediterranean crossing. While the Athens landing on the right is visually compelling, the left side's combination of the Addis Ababa plateau departure, the Ethiopian-Eritrean highlands, the Red Sea coastal transition, and the extended Mediterranean crossing with North African and Greek island views provides greater overall scenic diversity and landmark density across the full flight.
Flown ADD to ATH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Addis Ababa to Athens is 2,204 miles (3,548 km), a flight of about 5 hours 45 minutes.
Red Sea coastline (Eritrea/Sudan border region), Nile Delta and Egyptian Mediterranean coast, Libyan coastal plain, Crete and southern Aegean islands, Greek mainland coastline approaching Athens
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from ADD
LEFTLeft side captures the Ethiopian highlands immediately after departure. Aircraft departing runway 07 (northeast) climb over the elevated terrain surrounding Addis Ababa, offering views of the Entoto Mountains and the city's dramatic plateau setting before turning toward the Mediterranean corridor.
Landing at ATH
RIGHTRight side (south/southwest of Athens) provides superior approach scenery. Aircraft descending on runway 03 (northeast approach) swing around from the south, offering views of the Saronic Gulf coastline, the Athenian basin, and the Acropolis and city skyline during final descent. The Hymettus and Penteli Mountains frame the approach from the right.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bole International (ADD) to Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Addis Ababa to Athens. Left side scores higher due to the dramatic Ethiopian highlands during departure and the sustained scenic variety of the Mediterranean crossing. While the Athens landing on the right is visually compelling, the left side's combination of the Addis Ababa plateau departure, the Ethiopian-Eritrean highlands, the Red Sea coastal transition, and the extended Mediterranean crossing with North African and Greek island views provides greater overall scenic diversity and landmark density across the full flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Bole International in Addis Ababa?
During takeoff from Bole International (ADD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Ethiopian highlands immediately after departure. Aircraft departing runway 07 (northeast) climb over the elevated terrain surrounding Addis Ababa, offering views of the Entoto Mountains and the city's dramatic plateau setting before turning toward the Mediterranean corridor. Notable sights include: Entoto Mountains, Addis Ababa urban sprawl on the plateau, surrounding highland valleys, escarpment edges.
What can I see when landing at Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos in Athens?
When landing at Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (south/southwest of Athens) provides superior approach scenery. Aircraft descending on runway 03 (northeast approach) swing around from the south, offering views of the Saronic Gulf coastline, the Athenian basin, and the Acropolis and city skyline during final descent. The Hymettus and Penteli Mountains frame the approach from the right. Notable sights include: Saronic Gulf and Aegean coastline, Athenian basin with Acropolis visible, Hymettus and Penteli Mountains, Athens International Airport and surrounding Attica plain.
How long is the flight from Addis Ababa to Athens?
The flight from Bole International (ADD) to Athens International Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) takes about 5 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,204 miles (3,548 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Addis Ababa to Athens flight path pass over?
Red Sea coastline (Eritrea/Sudan border region), Nile Delta and Egyptian Mediterranean coast, Libyan coastal plain, Crete and southern Aegean islands, Greek mainland coastline approaching Athens