Right-side seats capture the superior departure views of Colombo's harbor and coastline, and while left wins on landing, the takeoff experience is more visually rewarding on this route.
Flown CMB to AUH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Colombo to Abu Dhabi is 2,051 miles (3,301 km), a flight of about 3 hours 45 minutes.
The flight crosses the Arabian Sea at altitude, passing over open ocean with no major landmarks visible. Around the midpoint, the Oman coastline (Musandam Peninsula area) may be visible on the left at distance during clear conditions, but the majority of the flight is over featureless sea. As the aircraft approaches the UAE, the Hajar Mountains become visible on the right (southeast) as a distant ridge on the horizon approximately 1 hour before landing, marking the transition from open ocean to the continental landmass.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from CMB
RIGHTCMB typically departs runway 04 (northeast heading). Right-side seats offer views of Colombo's western coastline and the Indian Ocean immediately after rotation, with the city sprawling inland to the left.
Landing at AUH
LEFTAUH typically lands runway 31L or 31R (westerly approach). Left-side seats provide views of the Persian Gulf coastline, salt flats, and the approach path over shallow water and coastal marshes before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bandaranaike International (CMB) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Colombo to Abu Dhabi. Right-side seats capture the superior departure views of Colombo's harbor and coastline, and while left wins on landing, the takeoff experience is more visually rewarding on this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Bandaranaike International in Colombo?
During takeoff from Bandaranaike International (CMB), sit on the Right side for the best views. CMB typically departs runway 04 (northeast heading). Right-side seats offer views of Colombo's western coastline and the Indian Ocean immediately after rotation, with the city sprawling inland to the left. Notable sights include: Colombo Harbor and breakwater, Indian Ocean extending westward, Kelani River delta, Colombo city grid.
What can I see when landing at Abu Dhabi International in Abu Dhabi?
When landing at Abu Dhabi International (AUH), sit on the Left side for the best views. AUH typically lands runway 31L or 31R (westerly approach). Left-side seats provide views of the Persian Gulf coastline, salt flats, and the approach path over shallow water and coastal marshes before touchdown. Notable sights include: Persian Gulf waters, Abu Dhabi salt flats and sabkha, coastal mangrove areas, Jebel Dhanna peninsula.
How long is the flight from Colombo to Abu Dhabi?
The flight from Bandaranaike International (CMB) to Abu Dhabi International (AUH) takes about 3 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,051 miles (3,301 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Colombo to Abu Dhabi flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Arabian Sea at altitude, passing over open ocean with no major landmarks visible. Around the midpoint, the Oman coastline (Musandam Peninsula area) may be visible on the left at distance during clear conditions, but the majority of the flight is over featureless sea. As the aircraft approaches the UAE, the Hajar Mountains become visible on the right (southeast) as a distant ridge on the horizon approximately 1 hour before landing, marking the transition from open ocean to the continental landmass.