Loading map...

CGN destination photo
BVC destination photo

CGNBVC

Which side of the plane to sit from Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne) to Rabil Airport (Boa Vista)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side (Port) is superior as it tracks the diverse landforms of the Pyrenees, the Strait of Gibraltar, and the dramatic transition from the Moroccan Sahara to the Atlantic Ocean, followed by close-up views of the eastern Canary Islands.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏰

Rhine Valley & Cologne

Aerial views of the Rhine River and the Gothic architecture of Cologne immediately after takeoff from CGN.

🏔️

The Pyrenees

Breathtaking views of the jagged, snow-capped border between France and Spain.

⚓

Strait of Gibraltar

The narrow gap where Europe and Africa nearly touch, often visible depending on the airway routing over Spain.

🏜️

Moroccan Coastline

Witness the stark contrast of the golden Sahara Desert sands meeting the deep blue Atlantic surf.

🌋

Lanzarote & Fuerteventura

Stunning views of the volcanic craters and turquoise lagoons of the easternmost Canary Islands.

🏝️

Boa Vista Approach

A direct view of the Sal Rei salt pans and the white sand dunes of the Viana Desert upon final descent.

Sit on the left for the best morning light on the European landmass and to catch the dramatic African coastline. For the approach into BVC, the left side usually provides a better view of the island's unique desert-meets-ocean geography during the standard northern approach.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🌊

Bay of Biscay

A vast expanse of deep blue water known for its dramatic weather patterns and maritime traffic.

🇵🇹

Portuguese Coast

The western edge of the European continent, including the cliffs of Cabo da Roca.

🌋

Mount Teide

Spain's highest peak on Tenerife is often visible rising above the clouds to the south-southeast.

🌅

Atlantic Sunset

If flying on a late afternoon flight, this side offers an unobstructed view of the sun dipping into the ocean.

The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic. While there are fewer landmarks than the left, you may catch a distant glimpse of Madeira or the westernmost Canary Islands (La Palma/El Hierro) depending on visibility and the specific air corridor assigned.

Top Activities in Boa Vista
Route Information

Distance: 4,696 km (2,918 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 31 min

Departure: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)

Arrival: BVC (16.136499404907227, -22.888900756835938)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.