While takeoff offers decent coastal views, the landing approach over the Orinoco delta is geographically more dramatic and visually distinctive. The delta's sediment plumes and complex waterway system provide far more interesting aerial geography than the relatively uniform Abu Dhabi coastal plain.
Flown AUH to BLA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Abu Dhabi to Barcelona is 7,704 miles (12,398 km), a flight of about 14 hours 30 minutes.
Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean crossing (minimal visual features at cruise altitude), East African coast near Somalia/Kenya (if visible during daylight), Atlantic crossing with open ocean, Caribbean approaches showing island systems and coastal features near Venezuela
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from AUH
RIGHTAUH typically departs eastbound (Runways 09L/09R) or westbound (Runways 27L/27R). Right-side seats on eastbound departures offer views of the Persian Gulf coastline and the flat Abu Dhabi coastal plain. Westbound departures show the inland desert and salt flats extending toward the Empty Quarter.
Landing at BLA
LEFTApproaching Barcelona, Venezuela on typical westbound descent (Runway 09 or similar), left-side seats provide views of the Orinoco River delta's complex waterway system and the Caribbean coastline. The delta's braided channels and mangrove areas are distinctive from altitude and create strong visual contrast against the surrounding landscape.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Abu Dhabi International (AUH) to General Jose Antonio Anzoategui International (BLA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Abu Dhabi to Barcelona. While takeoff offers decent coastal views, the landing approach over the Orinoco delta is geographically more dramatic and visually distinctive. The delta's sediment plumes and complex waterway system provide far more interesting aerial geography than the relatively uniform Abu Dhabi coastal plain.
What can I see during takeoff from Abu Dhabi International in Abu Dhabi?
During takeoff from Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Right side for the best views. AUH typically departs eastbound (Runways 09L/09R) or westbound (Runways 27L/27R). Right-side seats on eastbound departures offer views of the Persian Gulf coastline and the flat Abu Dhabi coastal plain. Westbound departures show the inland desert and salt flats extending toward the Empty Quarter. Notable sights include: Persian Gulf (eastern departures), Abu Dhabi city grid and port facilities, coastal salt marshes and sabkha flats, inland dune fields of the Rub' al Khali transitioning to the horizon.
What can I see when landing at General Jose Antonio Anzoategui International in Barcelona?
When landing at General Jose Antonio Anzoategui International (BLA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Approaching Barcelona, Venezuela on typical westbound descent (Runway 09 or similar), left-side seats provide views of the Orinoco River delta's complex waterway system and the Caribbean coastline. The delta's braided channels and mangrove areas are distinctive from altitude and create strong visual contrast against the surrounding landscape. Notable sights include: Orinoco River delta with its branching channels and sediment plumes, Caribbean Sea, Margarita Island (if visible on approach corridor), coastal mangrove forests and lagoon systems.
How long is the flight from Abu Dhabi to Barcelona?
The flight from Abu Dhabi International (AUH) to General Jose Antonio Anzoategui International (BLA) takes about 14 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 7,704 miles (12,398 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Abu Dhabi to Barcelona flight path pass over?
Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean crossing (minimal visual features at cruise altitude), East African coast near Somalia/Kenya (if visible during daylight), Atlantic crossing with open ocean, Caribbean approaches showing island systems and coastal features near Venezuela