While takeoff offers highland scenery, the landing approach into Hong Kong provides more dramatic and visually distinctive urban and maritime views. Left-side seats capture the iconic Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong's skyline during descent, making it the superior choice for the overall journey.
Flown ADD to HKG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Addis Ababa to Hong Kong is 5,037 miles (8,107 km), a flight of about 9 hours 55 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean, then transitions over the Bay of Bengal. Notable features include the Red Sea's northern reaches (if routed via Suez), the Indus River delta in Pakistan, the Thar Desert in northwest India, the Ganges River valley in northern India, and the Irrawaddy River delta in Myanmar before approaching the South China Sea and Hong Kong.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from ADD
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Ethiopian Highlands immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northeast or east from Addis Ababa, and right-side windows capture the dramatic escarpment and elevated terrain that defines the landscape around the city.
Landing at HKG
LEFTLeft-side seats provide superior views during descent into Hong Kong. The aircraft approaches from the northwest, and left-side windows capture Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong Island's skyline, and Kowloon Peninsula as the aircraft descends toward the runway.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bole International (ADD) to Hong Kong International (HKG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Addis Ababa to Hong Kong. While takeoff offers highland scenery, the landing approach into Hong Kong provides more dramatic and visually distinctive urban and maritime views. Left-side seats capture the iconic Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong's skyline during descent, making it the superior choice for the overall journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Bole International in Addis Ababa?
During takeoff from Bole International (ADD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Ethiopian Highlands immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northeast or east from Addis Ababa, and right-side windows capture the dramatic escarpment and elevated terrain that defines the landscape around the city. Notable sights include: Ethiopian Highlands (Addis Ababa plateau at ~7,700 ft elevation), Blue Nile River valley to the northwest, Entoto Mountains ridge, scattered volcanic peaks dotting the plateau.
What can I see when landing at Hong Kong International in Hong Kong?
When landing at Hong Kong International (HKG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide superior views during descent into Hong Kong. The aircraft approaches from the northwest, and left-side windows capture Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong Island's skyline, and Kowloon Peninsula as the aircraft descends toward the runway. Notable sights include: Victoria Harbour (deep blue water separating Hong Kong Island and Kowloon), Hong Kong Island skyline with Central District towers, Kowloon Peninsula urban sprawl, New Territories green hills to the north.
How long is the flight from Addis Ababa to Hong Kong?
The flight from Bole International (ADD) to Hong Kong International (HKG) takes about 9 hours 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,037 miles (8,107 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Addis Ababa to Hong Kong flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean, then transitions over the Bay of Bengal. Notable features include the Red Sea's northern reaches (if routed via Suez), the Indus River delta in Pakistan, the Thar Desert in northwest India, the Ganges River valley in northern India, and the Irrawaddy River delta in Myanmar before approaching the South China Sea and Hong Kong.