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CGH → SDU
Which side of the plane to sit from Congonhas Airport (Sao Paulo) to Santos Dumont Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers one of the most scenic flight experiences in the world, featuring the lush Costa Verde coastline and an iconic close-up approach to Rio's landmarks.
Search flights from CGH to SDU
Ilhabela and Ubatuba
Spectacular views of the rugged islands and turquoise bays of the Sao Paulo northern coastline.
Angra dos Reis
Clear views of Ilha Grande and the hundreds of tiny islands dotting the emerald waters of the Costa Verde.
Rio Beaches
On the descent, catch glimpses of the famous white sands of Copacabana and Ipanema.
Sugarloaf Mountain
An unbeatable, low-altitude view of Pao de Acucar as the plane banks sharply for the final approach into SDU.
Christ the Redeemer
Spot the iconic statue atop Corcovado Mountain overlooking the city just before touchdown.
The right side is essential for the classic SDU experience. Book a window seat toward the front to avoid the wing obstructing the view of the Sugarloaf. Morning flights are ideal to have the sun behind the plane, illuminating the coastline perfectly. Be aware that during rare 'Instrument Flight' days with heavy fog, views may be obscured until the very last second.
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Serra do Mar
Expansive views of the dense Atlantic Forest mountain range stretching along the border of Sao Paulo and Rio states.
Paraiba Valley
Bird's eye view of industrial hubs like Sao Jose dos Campos and the rolling hills of the countryside.
Rio-Niteroi Bridge
As the plane enters Guanabara Bay, you get a full perspective of the 13-kilometer bridge connecting the two cities.
Sit on the left if you prefer seeing the sprawling mountainous interior and the urban landscape of Niteroi. On rare southern approaches, this side might see the bay first, but it generally lacks the iconic landmarks visible from the right.
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Get eSIMs for BrazilDistance: 366 km (227 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 37 min
Departure: CGH (-23.626110076904297, -46.65638732910156)
Arrival: SDU (-22.910499572800003, -43.1631011963)
Route Type: Domestic
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