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CCS → MRD
Which side of the plane to sit from Simón Bolívar International Airport (Caracas) to Alberto Carnevalli Airport (Merida)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Sierra Nevada de Mérida massif, including the snow-capped Pico Bolívar, during the spectacular valley approach into Alberto Carnevalli Airport.
Caribbean Sea
Stunning views of the deep blue Caribbean waters immediately after departure from Maiquetía.
Cordillera de la Costa
The southern slopes of the Coastal Range as the aircraft climbs and turns toward the southwest.
Lake Valencia
Panoramic views of Venezuela's second-largest freshwater lake and the surrounding agricultural valleys.
Sierra Nevada de Mérida
The massive Andean mountain range rising sharply from the plains as you approach the destination.
Pico Bolívar
Direct views of Venezuela's highest peak (4,978m), often visible with snow near the summit during the descent.
Sit on the left (Seat A) for the 'money shot' of Pico Bolívar. Schedule your flight for the earliest possible morning departure (typically 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) because the Andes peaks are frequently covered by clouds and mist by midday. The approach into MRD is a visual flight rules (VFR) maneuver that brings you very close to the mountain walls.
Litoral Central
Aerial perspective of the coastline and the busy port of La Guaira during the initial climb.
Maracay and Valencia
Bird's-eye view of the dense urban centers of the central region and the northern ridge of the mountains.
Pan-American Highway
The winding roads and foothills that transition from the central plains into the Andean highlands.
Chama River Valley
The deep, narrow valley floor as the plane maneuvers for landing at the airport located in the heart of the city.
Sierra de la Culata
The northern mountain range of the Merida valley, showcasing rugged terrain and high-altitude paramo ecosystems.
The right side is excellent for seeing the sheer scale of the Chama River valley walls. It is generally less prone to direct sun glare during morning flights heading southwest. Look for the transition from the lush green foothills to the dryer, high-altitude terrain as the elevation increases toward Merida.
Distance: 509 km (316 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 51 min
Departure: CCS (10.601194, -66.991222)
Arrival: MRD (8.582078, -71.161041)
Route Type: Domestic
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