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ATL → GIG
Which side of the plane to sit from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta) to Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic approach into Rio de Janeiro, providing the best opportunity to see the Christ the Redeemer statue and the city's unique mountainous topography during descent.
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Florida Everglades
The vast, dark expanse of the Everglades and the Florida Keys visible shortly after leaving ATL.
Central Cuba
Direct crossing over the heart of Cuba, offering views of the island's southern coastline.
Amazon Rainforest
Endless stretches of deep green canopy and winding river tributaries as the sun rises over Brazil.
Corcovado Mountain
A chance to spot the Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking the city during the standard descent pattern.
Barra da Tijuca
Views of Rio's long western beaches and coastal lagoons during the initial descent.
The right side is the 'money side' for your arrival in Rio. Flight paths into GIG often approach from the west or circle over the city, giving right-side passengers a breathtaking view of the urban landscape carved into the jungle. For the best photography of the Amazon at dawn, ensure your window is clean before takeoff as frost often forms during the high-altitude cruise.
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The Bahamas
Aerial views of the scattered turquoise reefs and cays of the Great Bahama Bank shortly after departure.
Hispaniola
Moonlit or early dawn silhouettes of the rugged mountain ranges in the Dominican Republic.
Equatorial Sunrise
Vibrant sunrise colors reflecting off the Atlantic Ocean as the flight crosses the equator.
Rio-Niterói Bridge
A clear view of the 13-kilometer bridge spanning Guanabara Bay during the final approach.
The left side is ideal for sunrise enthusiasts, as the sun will rise over the Atlantic Ocean to the east of the flight path. As you approach GIG, you will have a better view of the Niterói coastline and the naval installations in the bay. This side is generally quieter for sleeping during the night portion of the flight.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for BrazilDistance: 7,641 km (4,748 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 59 min
Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Arrival: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Route Type: International
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