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CGB → GIG
Which side of the plane to sit from Marechal Rondon Airport (Cuiaba) to Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides showcase Brazil's transition from agricultural heartlands to coastal mountains, the right side is the clear winner for the iconic aerial approach into Rio de Janeiro, offering views of the city's most famous landmarks.
Search flights from CGB to GIG
Pantanal Fringes
Shortly after departure, look south to see the edges of the world's largest tropical wetland system.
Paraná River Crossing
View one of South America's most significant rivers as you fly over the border of São Paulo state.
Tijuca National Park
The massive urban rainforest provides a deep green contrast to the city during the descent.
Christ the Redeemer
On the standard 'Galeão' approach, the Corcovado mountain and the iconic statue are often visible to the right.
Sugarloaf Mountain
The distinctive granite peak at the mouth of the bay serves as a final landmark before landing.
This is the 'money' side for tourists. To see Christ the Redeemer, the plane usually flies a pattern that puts the city to your right. Sit in a window seat (typically 'F' seats) away from the wing. Afternoon flights (2 PM - 4 PM) are ideal as the sun is behind you, perfectly lighting the city and the ocean for photography.
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Cuiabá River
Watch the winding river that defines the city's geography immediately after takeoff from CGB.
Agricultural Patterns
Observe the massive, geometric soy and corn plantations across the Mato Grosso and São Paulo state borders.
Serra dos Órgãos
The dramatic, jagged peaks of the 'Organ Pipe' mountains are visible to the north during the final descent.
Rio-Niterói Bridge
Get a bird's-eye view of the 13-kilometer bridge spanning Guanabara Bay as the plane aligns with the runway.
Choose the left side if you are interested in the dramatic mountain topography of the Serra do Mar. Morning flights are particularly beautiful as the sun illuminates the rocky faces of the Serra dos Órgãos. Ensure you are seated forward of the wing to get an unobstructed view of the bridge during the final turn.
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Get eSIMs for BrazilDistance: 1,567 km (974 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 5 min
Departure: CGB (-15.6528997421, -56.1166992188)
Arrival: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Route Type: Domestic
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