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FOR → CNF
Which side of the plane to sit from Pinto Martins International Airport (Fortaleza) to Tancredo Neves International Airport (Belo Horizonte)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side provides a spectacular vantage point for the Brazilian coastline, including the turquoise waters of the Northeast and the iconic river deltas, before moving into the high-altitude terrain of Minas Gerais.
Fortaleza Urban Coast
Aerial views of Praia de Iracema and Meireles immediately after takeoff from Pinto Martins.
Atlantic Coral Reefs
Extensive reef systems visible through the clear shallow waters along the coast of Alagoas and Pernambuco.
Recife and Olinda
The dense urban sprawl and historic architecture of the 'Venice of Brazil' visible during the coastal transit.
São Francisco River Mouth
The massive silt plume and dramatic meeting of the 'Old Chico' river with the Atlantic Ocean near Penedo.
Coconut Coast
The lush green corridor of palm trees lining the beaches of northern Bahia.
Opt for a window seat on the left for morning departures to catch the sunrise reflecting off the Atlantic Ocean. Look for the urban layouts of major coastal capitals like Recife and Maceió. During the initial climb from FOR, you will see the expansive beaches of Ceará. Watch for the dramatic color change where the São Francisco River meets the sea.
The Sertão
The unique semi-arid landscape of the Brazilian interior with its characteristic caatinga vegetation.
São Francisco River Basin
Views of the upper parts of the river and potential glimpses of the Sobradinho Reservoir depending on the airway.
Serra do Espinhaço
The only mountain range in Brazil recognized as a Biosphere Reserve, featuring jagged peaks and quartzite formations.
Iron Quadrangle Borders
The rugged, reddish terrain signifying the entrance into the mineral-rich regions of central Minas Gerais.
Lagoa Santa Karst
The lake-dotted limestone landscape typical of the region surrounding Tancredo Neves Airport.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights to witness the golden hour over the rugged Sertão and avoid direct morning glare. Pay close attention during the descent into CNF as the Serra do Espinhaço provides a dramatic backdrop. This side is superior for observing the geological transition from the flat plains to the mountainous heart of Minas Gerais.
Distance: 1,858 km (1,155 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 29 min
Departure: FOR (-3.776279926300049, -38.53260040283203)
Arrival: CNF (-19.62444305419922, -43.97194290161133)
Route Type: Domestic
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