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GEL → RIA
Which side of the plane to sit from Santo Ângelo Airport (Santo Angelo) to Santa Maria Airport (Santa Maria)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior perspective of the descent from the Gaucho Highlands into the Central Depression, offering views of the rugged ridges north of Santa Maria.
Santo Angelo Cathedral
Panoramic view of the 'Angelopolitana' city center and the historic cathedral shortly after takeoff.
Gaucho Highlands
Rolling terrain of the Planalto Medio featuring the characteristic red soil and geometric agricultural patterns.
Rio Ijui Crossing
Aerial view of the winding Rio Ijui as it carves through the rural landscape of the Northwest region.
Itaara Ridges
Dramatic views of the basaltic cliffs and dense forests as the aircraft descends from the plateau.
Santa Maria Skyline
Excellent view of the city center and the Federal University (UFSM) campus during the final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. This side offers the best view of the transition from the high plateau to the valley. Keep your camera ready about 10 minutes before landing to capture the Itaara mountain range.
Agricultural Heartland
Expansive views of soybean and wheat plantations that define the regional economy.
Jacui River Tributaries
Network of small streams and ponds reflecting the sun across the rural landscape.
Pampa Biome Transition
Observation of the landscape shifting from plateau forests to the open grasslands of the South.
Santa Maria Air Base
Clear view of the military installations and runways of the BASM located adjacent to the civilian airport.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the pampas. It provides a great view of the Santa Maria Air Base (BASM) during the landing sequence. Look for the distinctive circular irrigation patterns common in this agricultural zone.
Distance: 166 km (103 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 17 min
Departure: GEL (-28.2817, -54.169102)
Arrival: RIA (-29.711399, -53.688202)
Route Type: Domestic
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