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FOR β RAI
Which side of the plane to sit from Pinto Martins International Airport (Fortaleza) to Praia International Airport (Praia, Santiago Island)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is preferred for the iconic departure views of Fortaleza's skyline and the strategic approach into Praia, offering better glimpses of the Cape Verdean archipelago's eastern islands.
Fortaleza Skyline
A spectacular view of the high-rise buildings lining Meireles Beach and the urban density of the CearΓ‘ capital.
Mucuripe Port
Detailed view of the industrial port and the traditional wooden fishing boats known as Jangadas.
Maio Island
The flat, sandy island of Maio often appears to the east just minutes before the final approach into Praia.
Santiago Cliffs
The rugged, arid volcanic coastline of Santiago Island as the plane banks for its final approach into RAI.
Praia Plateau
The historic center of Praia, situated on a distinct basalt plateau, visible during the landing sequence.
The right side is best for morning flights to see the Fortaleza coast illuminated. Watch for the change in landscape from the lush Brazilian tropics to the stark, beautiful volcanic terrain of Cape Verde. Request a window seat away from the wing for the best photography of the Praia approach.
Cumbuco Coastline
Aerial views of the sprawling sand dunes and lagoons located to the west of Fortaleza shortly after takeoff.
Equatorial Clouds
Dramatic towering cumulus formations typical of the Intertropical Convergence Zone over the Atlantic.
Fogo Island Silhouette
On clear days, the massive volcanic cone of Pico do Fogo may be visible in the distance to the west during descent.
Deep Atlantic
The striking transition of water colors from the turquoise continental shelf to the deep indigo of the mid-Atlantic.
Sit on the left if you are flying during the late afternoon to avoid the direct glare of the sun as you head north. This side is also superior for spotting the volcanic peak of Fogo if the flight path tracks slightly west of the standard airway.
Distance: 2,659 km (1,652 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 33 min
Departure: FOR (-3.776279926300049, -38.53260040283203)
Arrival: RAI (14.924500465393065, -23.49349975585937)
Route Type: International
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