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CTG → ADZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Rafael Nuñez International Airport (Cartagena) to Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (San Andres Island)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers a superior scenic experience, capturing the iconic Bocagrande skyline of Cartagena upon departure and the breathtaking coral formations of the Rosario Islands, followed by the most direct view of San Andres Island's vibrant reef system on the standard approach.
Bocagrande Skyline
Immediately after takeoff from CTG, enjoy a panoramic view of Cartagena's modern skyscraper district and the historic bay.
Rosario Islands
View the stunning Archipiélago de Nuestra Señora del Rosario, a collection of coral islands surrounded by turquoise waters.
Caribbean Gradient
Watch the dramatic color shift from the murky coastal waters of the mainland to the deep, crystalline indigo of the open Caribbean Sea.
San Andres Barrier Reef
During the descent, the left side typically faces the world's third-largest barrier reef, showcasing incredible shades of neon blue.
South Tip Approach
As the plane aligns for Runway 06, you will see the southern tip of San Andres and the 'Hoyos Sopladores' area.
Book a window seat on the left (usually seat A) for the most iconic Cartagena departure. Flights departing in the morning (08:00 - 10:00) offer the best lighting without the harsh afternoon sun glare reflecting off the water. Keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of the flight; the approach to ADZ is one of the most beautiful in the world.
Cartagena Port
View the massive container ships and industrial maritime infrastructure of one of South America's busiest ports.
La Boquilla & Mangroves
See the northern coastline of Cartagena, including the long sandy strips and the Ciénaga de la Virgen wetlands.
Tropical Cloudscapes
Excellent views of massive cumulonimbus formations that frequently tower over the warm Caribbean waters.
San Andres North End
Depending on the wind-dictated flight path, you may see the dense urban center (El Centro) and the main hotel zone.
Johnny Cay
Look for the tiny, palm-fringed islet of Sucre (Johnny Cay) just north of the main airport runway during final approach.
The right side (usually seat F) is better for avoiding direct sunlight on afternoon flights from the mainland. While you miss the Cartagena skyline, you get a great sense of the island's density and the proximity of the airport to the town center upon landing. If the wind shifts and you land on Runway 24, the right side becomes the preferred side for the 'Sea of Seven Colors' view.
Distance: 716 km (445 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 12 min
Departure: CTG (10.4424, -75.513)
Arrival: ADZ (12.5836, -81.7112)
Route Type: Domestic
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