Left side scores marginally higher due to superior takeoff scenery from Chiang Mai (Doi Luang mountains and forested terrain provide more visual drama than flat plains). Landing at Addis Ababa is comparable on both sides (plateau terrain is relatively uniform), but the dramatic mountain departure from Chiang Mai tips the overall balance to the left. Both sides are moderately scenic; this is a long overwater/desert route with limited ground features for most of the flight.
Flown CNX to ADD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chiang Mai to Addis Ababa is 4,074 miles (6,557 km), a flight of about 7 hours 15 minutes.
The flight crosses the Bay of Bengal, the Indian subcontinent (Deccan Plateau visible on clear days), the Arabian Sea, and the Horn of Africa. Cruise altitude provides views of cloud formations and occasional glimpses of the Red Sea coast near Djibouti. The route passes over open ocean and desert for approximately 70% of the flight, limiting scenic ground features during the middle segment.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from CNX
LEFTLeft side (west/northwest) captures the Doi Luang mountain range and forested terrain immediately west of Chiang Mai during climb-out. Right side faces open plains with minimal relief.
Landing at ADD
RIGHTRight side (east/northeast) during descent into Addis Ababa offers views of the Ethiopian Highlands plateau terrain and the approach to the city. Left side faces open plateau with less visual interest during final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) to Bole International (ADD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chiang Mai to Addis Ababa. Left side scores marginally higher due to superior takeoff scenery from Chiang Mai (Doi Luang mountains and forested terrain provide more visual drama than flat plains). Landing at Addis Ababa is comparable on both sides (plateau terrain is relatively uniform), but the dramatic mountain departure from Chiang Mai tips the overall balance to the left. Both sides are moderately scenic; this is a long overwater/desert route with limited ground features for most of the flight.
What can I see during takeoff from Chiang Mai International Airport in Chiang Mai?
During takeoff from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side (west/northwest) captures the Doi Luang mountain range and forested terrain immediately west of Chiang Mai during climb-out. Right side faces open plains with minimal relief. Notable sights include: Doi Luang peaks (northwest), Ping River valley (south), forested hills of northern Thailand.
What can I see when landing at Bole International in Addis Ababa?
When landing at Bole International (ADD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (east/northeast) during descent into Addis Ababa offers views of the Ethiopian Highlands plateau terrain and the approach to the city. Left side faces open plateau with less visual interest during final approach. Notable sights include: Ethiopian Highlands plateau, Addis Ababa urban sprawl, Entoto Mountains (northeast of city).
How long is the flight from Chiang Mai to Addis Ababa?
The flight from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) to Bole International (ADD) takes about 7 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,074 miles (6,557 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chiang Mai to Addis Ababa flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Bay of Bengal, the Indian subcontinent (Deccan Plateau visible on clear days), the Arabian Sea, and the Horn of Africa. Cruise altitude provides views of cloud formations and occasional glimpses of the Red Sea coast near Djibouti. The route passes over open ocean and desert for approximately 70% of the flight, limiting scenic ground features during the middle segment.