Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Abu Dhabi to Madras. While takeoff favors the right for gulf views, the landing approach on the left side provides more dramatic and sustained visual interest with the Bay of Bengal, river delta, and coastal lagoon system. The left side also captures Chennai's approach geography more comprehensively, making it the better overall choice for this route.

During takeoff from Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Persian Gulf coastline and the Musandam Peninsula as the aircraft climbs northeastward. AUH typically departs on runways 31L/31R (northeast heading), so right-side windows capture the immediate coastal geography and shallow gulf waters that define the region's geography. Notable sights include: Persian Gulf (shallow turquoise waters), Musandam Peninsula (Oman, appearing as a rocky headland to the northeast), Abu Dhabi city grid (visible briefly during initial climb), Jebel Dhanna industrial area (southwest, visible on left but right side captures better gulf perspective).

When landing at Chennai International (MAA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Coromandel Coast and Chennai's approach geography. MAA typically lands on runways 06/24; if landing on 06 (northeast), left windows face the Bay of Bengal and coastal features. The descent path brings views of the Cooum River delta, coastal lagoons, and the city's eastern waterfront before touchdown. Notable sights include: Bay of Bengal (deep blue water, visible throughout descent), Cooum River delta (narrow brown waterway with visible sediment patterns), Pulicat Lake (large brackish lagoon north of the airport, visible as a distinct water body with lighter coloration), Chennai's coastal urban grid (visible as the dense development zone approaching the runway).

The flight from Abu Dhabi International (AUH) to Chennai International (MAA) takes Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.

The flight path crosses the Arabian Sea heading southeast. Notable features include the open ocean (no major islands in the direct path), the gradual transition from the shallow Persian Gulf waters to the deeper Arabian Sea, and the approach to India's western coast. The Lakshadweep Islands lie south of the typical flight corridor. As the aircraft descends toward Chennai, the Coromandel Coast becomes visible with its characteristic rocky outcrops and fishing villages. The flight passes over the Bay of Bengal's relatively featureless open water before the final approach to the coastal city.