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CLT → GIG
Which side of the plane to sit from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (Charlotte) to Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the premier choice for this route, offering a front-row seat to the dramatic arrival in Rio de Janeiro, including views of the iconic Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain if the flight approaches from the north.
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Caribbean Islands
Potential views of the rugged mountainous terrain of Hispaniola and the smaller islands of the Antilles.
Amazon Meanders
Aerial view of the massive, winding silt-colored rivers that feed into the main Amazon channel.
Brazilian Highlands
The high plateau of the Cerrado, featuring unique geological formations and red earth landscapes.
Rio Cityscape
A breathtaking panorama of Rio's urban sprawl nestled between granite peaks and the Atlantic.
Guanabara Bay
The 'money shot' featuring Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the Niteroi Bridge on final approach.
The right side is essential for the iconic Rio arrival. Most GIG arrivals from the north track over Guanabara Bay, placing the city's landmarks on the right. For the best experience, keep your window shade open starting 40 minutes before landing. As most flights arrive in the early morning, the light on the right side is softer and perfect for photography without harsh glare.
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Atlantic Seaboard
Initial views of the South Carolina coastline and the deep blue of the Atlantic shortly after departure from Charlotte.
Bahamian Cays
Vibrant turquoise waters and intricate coral formations of the eastern Bahamas island chain.
Amazon Basin
The dense, dark green canopy of the northern Amazon rainforest stretching to the horizon.
Atlantic Sunrise
As this is typically an overnight flight, the left side receives the first light of dawn over the ocean.
Costa do Sol
Views of the white sand dunes and turquoise lagoons of Cabo Frio and Arraial do Cabo just before landing.
Choose the left side if you want to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean as you cross the equator. It is also the better side for seeing the coastal lagoons of the Rio de Janeiro state during the final descent. Since this is a long-haul flight, prioritize a window seat with a clear view of the wing to gauge the scale of the Amazon rainforest.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for BrazilDistance: 7,576 km (4,708 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 55 min
Departure: CLT (35.2140007019043, -80.94309997558594)
Arrival: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Route Type: International
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