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GIG → BSB
Which side of the plane to sit from Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro) to Presidente Juscelino Kubistschek International Airport (Brasilia)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic views of Rio's harbor upon takeoff and typically provides a superior perspective of Brasília's famous 'airplane' layout and the Paranoá Lake during the descent.
Sugarloaf & Guanabara Bay
Immediate views of the iconic Pão de Açúcar and the Rio-Niterói Bridge during the initial climb.
Serra dos Órgãos
Look for the 'Dedo de Deus' (God's Finger) rock formation protruding from the serrated mountain skyline.
Belo Horizonte Distant View
On clear days, the sprawling urban mass of Minas Gerais' capital can be seen on the horizon mid-flight.
Lago Paranoá
The massive man-made lake surrounding Brasília, often sparkling blue against the dry cerrado landscape.
Plano Piloto
As the plane aligns for landing at BSB, the right side usually provides the best angle of Oscar Niemeyer’s architectural masterpieces.
The right side is the 'golden ticket' for Brasília's arrival. Try to book a morning flight for the best lighting on the Rio landmarks. During the dry season (May to September), watch for the striking contrast between the blue lake and the golden-brown vegetation of the Federal District.
Rio's South Zone
If the flight path arcs south before heading north, enjoy views of Ipanema and Leblon beaches against the granite peaks.
Serra da Mantiqueira
Dramatic views of the rugged mountain range separating Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais states.
Minas Gerais Countryside
A patchwork of coffee plantations and rolling hills as you cross over the interior of Brazil's mining heartland.
Cerrado Savannah
Transition into the unique stunted trees and red earth characteristic of the Brazilian central highlands.
Sit on the left for late afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Minas Gerais mountains. This side is often better for spotting the expansive Furnas Reservoir if the flight path shifts slightly westward.
Distance: 914 km (568 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min
Departure: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Arrival: BSB (-15.86916732788086, -47.92083358764648)
Route Type: Domestic
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