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BPS → SDU
Which side of the plane to sit from Porto Seguro Airport (Porto Seguro) to Santos Dumont Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a world-class aerial tour of Rio de Janeiro's iconic landmarks, including Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, during the spectacular approach into Santos Dumont.
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Monte Pascoal
The first land seen by Portuguese explorers in 1500, visible as a prominent rounded peak shortly after departure from Porto Seguro.
Serra do Mar
Continuous chain of mountains covered in dense Atlantic Forest running along the coastline, creating a dramatic backdrop.
Christ the Redeemer
The world-famous statue standing atop Corcovado mountain is often clearly visible on the right during the descent into Rio.
Sugarloaf Mountain
An iconic granite peak that marks the entrance to Guanabara Bay, passed at low altitude during the final approach.
Copacabana Beach
The distinct wave-patterned sidewalk and golden sands of Rio's famous beaches are visible just moments before landing.
Book a window seat on the right side (typically Seat F or K) to witness the 'Marvellous City' landmarks. The final approach to SDU is legendary; planes often fly alongside the city mountains before turning into the bay. Late afternoon flights are ideal as the sun sets behind the mountains, providing dramatic silhouettes of Christ the Redeemer and the city skyline. Ensure your camera is ready for the high-banked turn near Sugarloaf Mountain.
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Atlantic Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue ocean and the vast Brazilian coastline stretching south towards the state of Rio.
Abrolhos Archipelago
If the flight path is slightly offshore, you may spot the turquoise waters of this famous marine sanctuary near the Bahia coast.
Rio-Niterói Bridge
A massive engineering feat connecting Rio and Niterói across the mouth of Guanabara Bay, visible just before touchdown.
Niterói Contemporary Art Museum
Spot the flying saucer shaped building designed by Oscar Niemeyer on the Niterói shoreline during the final descent.
The left side provides a serene view of the Atlantic and a great perspective of the Niterói coastline. For the best lighting, fly in the morning when the sun illuminates the coast from the east, though be prepared for high glare directly out the window. During the landing phase, you will see the Rio-Niterói bridge clearly.
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Get eSIMs for BrazilDistance: 837 km (520 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min
Departure: BPS (-16.438601000000002, -39.080898)
Arrival: SDU (-22.910499572800003, -43.1631011963)
Route Type: Domestic
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