Loading map...
BVC → RAI
Which side of the plane to sit from Rabil Airport (Boa Vista) to Praia International Airport (Praia, Santiago Island)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a more scenic descent into Praia, featuring the rugged mountainous interior of Santiago and the islet of Sal Rei upon departure from Boa Vista.
Ilhéu de Sal Rei
A beautiful small islet located just off the main town of Boa Vista during the initial climb.
Praia de Chaves
Crystal clear waters and wide sandy beaches stretching south from the airport.
Maio Island
On clear days, the distant silhouette of the island of Maio is visible to the west mid-flight.
Serra Malagueta
The jagged peaks and deep valleys of Santiago's northern mountain range during the descent.
Assomada
The high-altitude city located in the central plateau of Santiago island.
The right side is generally superior for this short hop. It provides the best perspective of the Santiago mountain ranges (Serra Malagueta) which are the highlight of the approach. Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you for better photography of the green valleys and volcanic peaks. Be aware that 'Haze' or 'Bruma Seca' (dust from the Sahara) can sometimes limit visibility between December and February.
Deserto de Viana
View the massive white sand dunes in the interior of Boa Vista shortly after takeoff.
Curral Velho
The abandoned village and salt pans on the remote southern coast of Boa Vista.
Atlantic Crossing
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic Ocean between the islands of the Sotavento group.
Praia Plateau
The urban layout of the capital city as the plane lines up for the final approach.
Sit on the left if you want to see the interior desert of Boa Vista immediately after takeoff. On arrival at RAI, the left side typically faces the ocean if the wind is blowing from the north, though you will see the eastern cliffs of Santiago.
Distance: 150 km (93 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 15 min
Departure: BVC (16.136499404907227, -22.888900756835938)
Arrival: RAI (14.924500465393065, -23.49349975585937)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.