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CFB → SDU
Which side of the plane to sit from Cabo Frio Airport (Cabo Frio) to Santos Dumont Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most iconic experience, featuring the crystal-clear waters of Arraial do Cabo immediately after takeoff and the world-famous close-up view of Sugarloaf Mountain during the final approach into Rio.
Search flights from CFB to SDU
Arraial do Cabo
Stunning aerial views of the 'Brazilian Caribbean' with its turquoise waters and white sand dunes right after departure.
Costa do Sol
Continuous views of the rugged Atlantic coastline, including the famous surfing breaks of Saquarema.
Sugarloaf Mountain
An unparalleled, eye-level view of Pão de Açúcar as the plane performs its signature turn into Guanabara Bay.
Copacabana Beach
The distinctive wave-patterned sidewalk and dense skyline of Rio's most famous beach during the descent.
Ilhas Cagarras
Small uninhabited islands located just off the coast of Ipanema, visible as the plane aligns for landing.
Book a window seat on the left (typically 'A' seats) for the legendary SDU landing. Morning flights are best to avoid the sun's glare over the ocean, while late afternoon flights offer a spectacular golden hour glow against the granite peaks of Rio. Be ready with your camera about 10 minutes before landing, as the approach happens very quickly.
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Araruama Lagoon
A massive hypersaline lagoon system that creates beautiful geometric patterns and shades of blue inland.
Serra do Mar
The lush, tropical mountain range covered in Atlantic Forest that follows the route to the north.
Niterói MAC
The spaceship-like Contemporary Art Museum designed by Oscar Niemeyer on the Niterói shoreline.
Rio-Niterói Bridge
The 13-kilometer engineering marvel spanning Guanabara Bay, viewed just before touchdown.
Guanabara Bay
Views of the naval ships, ferries, and the bustling maritime activity of Rio's harbor.
The right side (typically 'F' or 'K' seats) is excellent for observing the contrast between the coastal lagoons and the steep mountains. If the aircraft lands from the north (less common, usually during specific wind conditions), the right side actually gets the better view of the downtown skyline and the Maracanã stadium in the distance.
Book Hotels in Rio De JaneiroDistance: 112 km (70 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 11 min
Departure: CFB (-22.921699523900003, -42.0742988586)
Arrival: SDU (-22.910499572800003, -43.1631011963)
Route Type: Domestic
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