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CJC → ANF
Which side of the plane to sit from El Loa Airport (Calama) to Andrés Sabella Gálvez International Airport (Antofagasta)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of the high Andean peaks and the shimmering Salar de Atacama salt flats against the vast desert landscape.
Andean Vistas
Snow-capped peaks of the high Andes line the eastern horizon for most of the flight duration.
Salar de Atacama
The shimmering white crust of Chile's largest salt flat is visible to the southeast of the flight path.
Sierra Gorda Mines
A birds-eye view of massive desert mining operations with deep pits and complex industrial roads.
Cordillera Domeyko
The rugged, ancient mountain ranges that run parallel to the Andes, showing distinct geological colors.
Book a seat on the left side for morning departures to see the sun illuminate the Andes without facing direct glare. Keep an eye out for the white expanse of the Salar de Atacama shortly after takeoff. This side provides a superior perspective of the high-altitude topography before the descent towards the coast.
Mining Footprints
Massive open-pit copper mines appearing as giant, man-made craters in the desert floor.
Atacama Pampa
Vast, hyper-arid desert plains with unique wind-sculpted patterns and no visible vegetation.
Pacific Horizon
The deep blue of the Pacific Ocean creates a sharp contrast against the brown desert as the plane nears the coast.
Coastal Antofagasta
View the narrow urban sprawl of the port city wedged between steep coastal cliffs and the shoreline.
The right side is excellent for afternoon or sunset flights to watch the sun dip into the Pacific Ocean. During the final approach into ANF, this side usually offers a better look at the sheer coastal cliffs and the northern suburbs of Antofagasta. It is the best choice for those who enjoy seeing the sudden transition from desert to sea.
Distance: 190 km (118 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 19 min
Departure: CJC (-22.498199462890625, -68.90360260009766)
Arrival: ANF (-23.444501, -70.445099)
Route Type: Domestic
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