Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Addis Ababa to Rome. Right-side seats capture the more dramatic geography: the Ethiopian Highlands escarpment on departure and the Mediterranean coastline on approach. The midpoint flight path over the Red Sea and Nile Valley offers less distinctive window views from either side, making the bookend views the deciding factor.

During takeoff from Bole International (ADD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Addis Ababa typically departs runway 25R or 25L (westbound). Right-side seats face north during initial climb, offering views of the Ethiopian Highlands escarpment and the city's elevated terrain. Left seats see the plateau interior with less dramatic relief. Notable sights include: Ethiopian Highlands escarpment (northern edge), Addis Ababa urban sprawl across the plateau, Mount Entoto to the north, Rift Valley lakes region to the south.

When landing at Fiumicino (FCO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Rome Fiumicino typically lands runway 16L or 16R (southbound approach). Left-side seats on descent face west, directly viewing the Tiber River delta, Mediterranean coastline, and the city's western districts including Vatican City area. Right seats see the inland Campagna plain with less distinctive features. Notable sights include: Tiber River delta and mouth at Mediterranean, Fiumicino airport runways and taxiways, Rome's western urban sprawl, Mediterranean Sea coastline.

The flight from Bole International (ADD) to Fiumicino (FCO) takes Approximately 5 hours 15 minutes.

Red Sea (crossing at roughly 15°N, 40°E), Nile River valley visible near Aswan region (Egypt), Sinai Peninsula to the east, Eastern Desert plateau, Mediterranean approaches over Greece and Albania before Italian descent