For many travelers, the magic of flying begins not just when the plane takes off, but in those precious moments before landing—when the aircraft descends and the world below unfolds like a living postcard. While airports might often be seen as mere transit points, some offer approaches so spectacular that they become unforgettable experiences in their own right.

These landings combine breathtaking natural landscapes, daring feats of aviation skill, and glimpses of vibrant cultures, transforming the final moments of a flight into a visual and emotional highlight. From remote island paradises and towering mountain valleys to bustling urban centers and engineering marvels perched on cliffs, the world’s most beautiful airport landings invite passengers to witness the planet’s diverse beauty from a unique aerial vantage point.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, an aviation enthusiast, or simply a lover of stunning scenery, these top 10 landings promise to captivate and inspire, offering a glimpse of the extraordinary just before you touch down.

1. Lord Howe Island Airport, Australia

Set on a remote volcanic island in the Tasman Sea, Lord Howe Island Airport offers one of the most enchanting landings imaginable. As the plane descends, travelers are treated to panoramic views of crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and verdant mountains rising sharply from the ocean. The runway, a narrow strip hugged by steep cliffs and dense subtropical rainforest, feels like a secret gateway to a pristine wilderness.

The island’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage site ensures that the environment remains untouched, with only a small number of visitors allowed at any time. Wildlife enthusiasts might glimpse rare birds such as the Lord Howe woodhen or spot pods of dolphins swimming below, making the approach a serene immersion into nature’s splendor.

2. Queenstown Airport, New Zealand

Nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, Queenstown Airport offers a dramatic and adrenaline-pumping landing. Pilots navigate a challenging approach that requires weaving between towering snow-capped peaks and deep glacial valleys. As the plane banks sharply, passengers catch breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu’s shimmering, fjord-like waters stretching out like a ribbon through the mountains.

The surrounding landscape is a patchwork of rugged alpine terrain, verdant forests, and quaint towns. In winter, the peaks are dusted with snow, while in autumn, the forests blaze with fiery reds and golds. This landing is a favorite for adventure travelers, who often combine their flight with skydiving, heli-skiing, or scenic helicopter tours that showcase the region’s dramatic topography from above.

3. Madeira Airport, Portugal

Madeira Airport’s landing is a masterclass in aviation ingenuity and natural beauty. The runway extends over the Atlantic Ocean on a massive platform supported by 180 concrete columns, creating the illusion of landing on water. The approach skirts steep, rugged cliffs covered in lush greenery and volcanic rock formations, with the deep blue ocean stretching endlessly beyond.

Madeira’s subtropical climate means passengers often see wisps of clouds hugging the mountainsides, adding a mystical quality to the descent. The airport is notorious for its tricky crosswinds, making it a favorite challenge for pilots and an exhilarating experience for passengers. The nearby town of Funchal, visible from the air, boasts terraced vineyards and colorful gardens that hint at the island’s rich culture and history.

4. Pitkin County Airport, Aspen, USA

Aspen’s Pitkin County Airport is a gateway to one of America’s most iconic mountain destinations. The landing approach is tightly constrained by the surrounding Rocky Mountains, forcing pilots to execute precise maneuvers through narrow valleys. In winter, the landscape is transformed into a sparkling white wonderland, with ski runs and snow-covered evergreens visible from the window.

Summer reveals lush alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers and winding hiking trails. The airport’s exclusivity—only specially certified pilots can land here—reflects Aspen’s status as a luxury resort town. The descent offers stunning views of the Elk Mountains and the Roaring Fork River, setting the tone for a trip filled with outdoor adventure and refined mountain culture.

5. Rio de Janeiro–Santos Dumont Airport, Brazil

Landing at Santos Dumont Airport is a sensory feast, combining natural beauty with iconic urban landmarks. The runway juts out into Guanabara Bay, so the approach feels like skimming over water. Passengers are treated to sweeping views of Rio’s world-famous sights: the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer perched atop Corcovado Mountain, the rounded granite peaks of Sugarloaf Mountain rising dramatically from the bay, and the crescent-shaped beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.

The city’s vibrant colors and bustling harbor come alive from the air, especially during sunset when the sky glows orange and pink. The proximity to downtown Rio means the city’s energy is palpable even before touching down, offering a thrilling welcome to Brazil’s cultural heart.

6. London City Airport, United Kingdom

London City Airport offers one of the most urban and architecturally spectacular landings in the world. Situated just minutes from the financial district, the approach follows the winding River Thames, with aircraft descending steeply between skyscrapers. Passengers get close-up views of landmarks like The Shard—the tallest building in Western Europe—Tower Bridge with its iconic bascules, and the futuristic Canary Wharf skyline.

The steep glide slope is necessary due to the airport’s location in a densely built-up area, making the landing both challenging and exciting. Flying in here gives travelers a unique perspective on London’s blend of historic charm and modern dynamism, with the sprawling cityscape stretching out in every direction.

7. Innsbruck Airport, Austria

Innsbruck Airport is a jewel nestled deep within the Austrian Alps, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. The approach requires pilots to navigate a series of tight turns through narrow mountain passes, offering passengers ever-changing vistas of alpine meadows, traditional Tyrolean villages, and rugged cliffs.

The airport’s location in a basin means the runway is framed on all sides by mountains, creating a dramatic and intimate flying experience. Seasonal variations add to the spectacle: in summer, the landscape is a vibrant patchwork of green fields and blooming flowers; in winter, the area becomes a snowy playground for skiers and snowboarders. The approach is renowned for its beauty and difficulty, making Innsbruck a favorite among aviation enthusiasts.

8. Paro Airport, Bhutan

Paro Airport is often cited as one of the most challenging and breathtaking airports to land at anywhere in the world. Tucked away in a deep Himalayan valley, the airport is surrounded by peaks soaring up to 18,000 feet. Only a handful of specially trained pilots are authorized to fly into Paro, requiring expert skill to navigate the narrow approach.

From the window, passengers witness pristine forests, terraced rice paddies, and traditional Bhutanese monasteries perched on cliffsides. The approach offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural environment, with the Paro River winding through the valley below. The serenity and remoteness of this landing make it a truly unforgettable experience.

9. Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport, Caribbean Netherlands (Saba)

Known for having the world’s shortest commercial runway—just 400 meters long—Saba’s Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport is perched dramatically atop a volcanic ridge with sheer cliffs dropping into the Caribbean Sea on either end. The approach is thrilling and visually spectacular, with planes flying low over the turquoise waters and lush green hillsides of this tiny island.

The surrounding volcanic terrain is rugged and wild, contrasting beautifully with the calm, crystal-clear ocean below. The airport’s unique geography means pilots must be highly skilled, and passengers often feel like they’re landing on a postcard-perfect island paradise. It’s a must-see for aviation buffs and travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

10. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA

Honolulu’s main airport offers a stunning Pacific island landing that combines tropical beauty with iconic Hawaiian landmarks. Most flights approach over the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, with passengers gazing out at endless blue water dotted with whitecaps. As the plane nears Oahu, the lush green landscape emerges, crowned by the famous Diamond Head volcanic crater.

The approach also offers views of Waikiki Beach’s golden sands and the bustling cityscape of Honolulu. During the winter months, travelers might even spot humpback whales breaching offshore, adding a magical natural spectacle to the descent. The warm trade winds and vibrant island colors make this landing a joyful welcome to paradise.

Travel Tips

1. Choose Your Seat Wisely: For scenic landings like those at Innsbruck or Queenstown, try to book a window seat on the side facing the mountains or coastline to enjoy breathtaking views during descent.

2. Pack Smart: Always carry essentials like a portable charger, noise-cancelling headphones, and a travel pillow to stay comfortable on flights.

3. Research Airport Layouts: Knowing the layout of your arrival airport can save time and reduce stress, especially at busy or complex airports.

These extraordinary airport landings remind us that flying is not merely a means to an end but an opportunity to witness the planet’s breathtaking diversity from a unique, elevated perspective. Each approach offers a captivating interplay of nature’s grandeur, human ingenuity, and cultural richness—whether it’s the thrill of threading through mountain passes, the serene beauty of remote islands, or the vibrant pulse of iconic cities.

For travelers fortunate enough to experience these landings, the view from the window seat becomes a cherished memory, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. Beyond the technical skill required by pilots, these landings celebrate the wonder of exploration and the joy of discovery, proving that sometimes the journey itself is the most beautiful part of travel.

So next time you buckle your seatbelt for descent, take a moment to look out the window—you might just be witnessing one of the world’s most spectacular arrivals.

Etihad Airways is set to elevate the travel experience between Sydney and Abu Dhabi with the introduction of its Airbus A350-1000 aircraft on select flights starting October 1, 2025. These aircraft feature one of the airline’s most luxurious business class cabins, offering 44 private suites designed to provide the comfort and exclusivity of first class within a business class setting.

Each business suite is equipped with sliding privacy doors, fully flat beds, and advanced in-flight entertainment systems, ensuring passengers can relax and arrive refreshed after the long-haul journey. The A350-1000’s cutting-edge design also contributes to a quieter, more comfortable cabin atmosphere, with features such as larger windows and improved air filtration.

Technologically advanced and environmentally efficient, the A350-1000 is constructed from lightweight carbon polymer materials and powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. This combination reduces fuel consumption by approximately 25% and lowers carbon emissions, making it one of the most eco-friendly aircraft in operation.

Initially, the A350 will complement the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on the Sydney-Abu Dhabi route, with both aircraft offering the premium business suites. From January 31, 2026, all ten weekly Etihad flights from Sydney will be operated exclusively by the A350, while Melbourne flights will continue daily on the 787-9.

Passengers traveling through Abu Dhabi will benefit from the recently opened Zayed International Airport, which has been acclaimed as the world’s most beautiful airport. The $4.8 billion facility incorporates advanced AI technologies, including facial recognition and smart passenger processing systems, allowing travelers to move swiftly from curbside to gate in as little as 12 minutes.

With this upgrade, Etihad Airways promises Australian travelers a seamless blend of luxury, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring that their journey is as exceptional as their destination.

Vietnam Airlines will inaugurate a direct flight service between Hanoi and Milan, Italy, starting July 1, 2025, marking the first time a Vietnamese carrier offers nonstop flights to Italy. The new route will operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, enhancing connectivity between Vietnam and Europe.

This milestone expands Vietnam Airlines’ European network to nine direct routes, including existing flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Paris, Frankfurt, London, and soon Munich. The airline also plans to launch a direct Ho Chi Minh City–Milan service after 2025, further strengthening ties between the two countries.

Milan, Italy’s second-largest city and a global fashion and cultural hub, attracts millions of tourists, especially during summer months. Italy is a popular destination for Vietnamese travelers, and visitor numbers from Italy to Vietnam have surged by 155% in 2024, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism.

The new direct route is expected to boost tourism and facilitate economic, social, and political exchanges between Vietnam and Italy, with ongoing negotiations for a visa waiver for Vietnamese tour groups.

Tickets are now available on Vietnam Airlines’ website and official channels, with promotional fares starting at around USD 810 for round-trip economy tickets in July 2025. Flight VN73 departs Hanoi at 00:45, arriving in Milan at 07:40; the return flight VN72 leaves Milan at 12:45, arriving in Hanoi at 04:35 the next day.

Vietnam Airlines currently operates a modern fleet including Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, A321, and A320neo aircraft, and continues to expand its international services with plans to launch or revive 15 new routes this year.

This new Hanoi-Milan service represents a strategic expansion of Vietnam Airlines’ global network, offering greater travel flexibility and fostering stronger international ties between Vietnam, Italy, and Europe.

Following Israel's recent airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites, Air Arabia has announced extensive flight cancellations affecting ten countries amid escalating regional tensions and widespread airspace closures. The Sharjah-based low-cost carrier temporarily suspended flights to and from Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Russia, Armenia, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, with cancellations initially covering June 13 and 14 and extended through June 17 for some routes.

The disruptions stem from Israel's military campaign aimed at halting Iran's nuclear weapon development, which triggered the closure of airspace over Iran, Iraq, Jordan, and neighboring countries, severely impacting key air corridors between Europe and Asia. Air Arabia's affected routes include major cities such as Tehran, Mashhad, Shiraz, Erbil, Baghdad, Najaf, Basra, Amman, Beirut, Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Samara, Yerevan, Tbilisi, Baku, Almaty, and Tashkent. Flights between Ras Al Khaimah and Moscow, as well as Abu Dhabi and Moscow, Yerevan, Tbilisi, and Baku, have also been canceled, including return flights to the UAE.

Other UAE carriers have similarly curtailed operations: Emirates suspended flights to Iraq, Iran, Jordan, and Lebanon until late June; Etihad Airways canceled Abu Dhabi-Tel Aviv flights through June 17 and adjusted schedules for Amman and Beirut; flydubai halted flights to Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Iran, Iraq, and Israel with some aircraft rerouted or returned mid-flight for safety. Dubai International Airport, Dubai World Central, and Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport have reported delays and cancellations, urging passengers to verify flight status before traveling.

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a travel advisory urging nationals and residents in the region to stay updated and register with consular services for emergency support. Airlines emphasize passenger and crew safety as their highest priority and advise travelers to monitor official airline websites for real-time updates, rebooking options, and refunds due to the fluid security situation.

This extensive disruption highlights the profound impact of geopolitical conflicts on global aviation, with airlines forced to navigate rapidly changing airspace restrictions to ensure safety amid rising tensions in the Middle East

Traveling with family can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to navigating airports and ensuring everyone’s comfort. Recognizing the unique needs of families, Air Arabia has introduced a comprehensive range of services aimed at making air travel easier, more convenient, and enjoyable for parents and children alike. From city check-ins and dedicated airport support to onboard entertainment and family-friendly loyalty rewards, Air Arabia is setting a new standard for family travel. Below, discover the key features and benefits designed to make every family journey smooth and memorable.

Check-In and Pre-Departure Convenience

Air Arabia offers families a seamless start to their journey with multiple convenient check-in options. Families can use 13 to 14 city check-in locations across Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah, allowing them to check in and collect boarding passes away from the airport, reducing wait times and stress. Online check-in is also available, enabling families to bypass queues and enjoy a smoother start to their trip.

Dedicated Family Support at the Airport

At Sharjah International Airport, families benefit from dedicated fast-track check-in, expedited boarding, and streamlined immigration and security processing. Porter services are provided to help with luggage, so parents’ hands are free to manage their children. The Meet & Assist package is available for both departures and arrivals, offering a warm greeting, help with airport formalities, fast-track clearance, baggage assistance, and escort services.

Traveling with Infants and Young Children

Air Arabia makes traveling with infants easy by providing onboard bassinets for those seated in the front row—these can be pre-booked via the airline’s website or customer service. Infants as young as three days old are accepted for travel with the proper documentation. Parents can bring an extra hand baggage item (up to 3 kg) for baby essentials. Strollers can be used throughout the airport and are returned upon landing. Every infant must be accompanied by a passenger at least 16 years old, and children under 12 must be accompanied by someone at least 16 years old as well.

Onboard Entertainment and Activities

Onboard, Air Arabia’s complimentary in-flight entertainment system, SkyTime, features a wide range of kid-friendly movies, games, and TV shows, refreshed regularly for new and exciting content. The “Fun Onboard” program offers interactive activities such as coloring books, face painting, and in-flight competitions. Special “Kid Snack Boxes,” packed with treats and drawing sets, keep young travelers entertained. Families can pre-order kid-friendly meals, including options like chicken tenders with mac & cheese and Nutella sandwiches.

Loyalty and Rewards for Families

Air Arabia’s AirRewards loyalty program enhances family travel by allowing up to eight family members to be linked under one account. The family head earns 50% of the points from each member’s flights, helping to accumulate rewards faster and unlock exclusive benefits. The airline’s spacious economy seating and flexible baggage policies further ensure a comfortable and affordable journey for all.

Thoughtful amenities, robust safety measures, and personalized support distinguish Air Arabia’s approach to family travel. These features collectively raise the bar for family-friendly air journeys, ensuring that every trip is both memorable and free from hassle for passengers of all ages.

Etihad Airways has announced a significant expansion of its operations to Karachi, Pakistan, with the introduction of four daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Karachi starting from October 1, 2025. This move will increase the frequency to 28 nonstop flights per week, offering travelers more flexibility and convenience on one of the region’s most popular routes. The enhanced schedule is expected to support both business and leisure travel, catering to the strong demand between the UAE and Pakistan.

Etihad’s flights from Abu Dhabi to Karachi cover a distance of approximately 1,271 kilometers (790 miles), with each direct journey taking around two hours and fifteen minutes. The airline is known for its high standards of comfort across all cabins, including ergonomic seats in Economy and fully flat beds in Business Class, as well as onboard Wi-Fi and a robust in-flight entertainment system. Passengers can also take advantage of Etihad’s convenient home check-in service, premium amenity kits, and attentive service throughout their journey.

Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city and commercial hub, is a vital destination for travelers seeking business opportunities or exploring its vibrant cultural scene. The city’s tropical, semi-arid climate, diverse landscapes, and rich history make it a compelling destination year-round. With the increased frequency, Etihad aims to further strengthen economic and tourism ties between the UAE and Pakistan, providing more options for travelers and contributing to the growing connectivity in the region. For the latest schedules, fares, and booking options, travelers are encouraged to visit Etihad’s official website.

Flight schedule between Abu Dhabi and Karachi from 01 October 2025. All times local

Flight	Frequency	Departure City	Departure Time	Arrival City	Arrival Time
EY292	Daily	Abu Dhabi	07:50	Karachi	11:05
EY293	Daily	Karachi	12:00	Abu Dhabi	13:05
EY294	Daily	Abu Dhabi	14:40	Karachi	17:55
EY295	Daily	Karachi	21:35	Abu Dhabi	22:40
EY296	Daily	Abu Dhabi	23:40	Karachi	03:00
EY297	Daily	Karachi	05:15	Abu Dhabi	06:30
EY298	Daily	Abu Dhabi	02:25	Karachi	05:40
EY299	Daily	Karachi	06:35	Abu Dhabi	07:50