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GIG → LIS
Which side of the plane to sit from Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro) to Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Portela Airport) (Lisbon)?
Right Side of the Plane
While the Left Side offers coastal views of Brazil, the Right Side is superior for the iconic Lisbon approach over the Tagus River and the spectacular mid-Atlantic sunrise characteristic of this eastbound overnight route.
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Guanabara Bay
Immediate views of Rio's iconic bay, the Rio-Niterói Bridge, and the surrounding granite peaks shortly after takeoff.
Mid-Atlantic Sunrise
As this is typically an overnight flight, the right side enjoys a front-row seat to a brilliant sunrise over the cloud deck.
25 de Abril Bridge
The striking red suspension bridge spanning the Tagus River is a highlight of the right-side approach into LIS.
Cristo Rei
The giant statue of Christ the King overlooking the river is clearly visible as the plane aligns with the runway.
Lisbon City Center
Sweeping views of the Alfama district, the Baixa, and the Praça do Comércio just seconds before touchdown.
The right side is the 'money side' for this route. Most flights depart GIG in the evening and arrive in LIS in the morning; the right side avoids direct, harsh glare during the descent. For the best views of Lisbon's historic center, ensure you are seated behind the wing to have an unobstructed view of the Tagus River landmarks. This view is most prominent when the airport is operating with Runway 03 for arrivals.
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Brazilian Northeast Coast
Aerial views of the white sand dunes and turquoise waters near Natal and Fortaleza during the initial hours of flight.
Sintra Mountains
The lush green peaks of the Serra de Sintra and the Pena Palace may be visible during the descent into Lisbon.
Cabo da Roca
The westernmost point of continental Europe is often visible on the left during the final approach pattern.
The left side is preferable if you want to catch the last glimpses of the Brazilian coastline as you head into the Atlantic. On arrival in Lisbon, if the plane lands towards the north (Runway 03), you will see the rugged Estoril coastline and the Cascais area. Use a polarising filter for photos to cut through the ocean haze.
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Get eSIMs for PortugalDistance: 7,715 km (4,794 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 5 min
Departure: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Arrival: LIS (38.7813, -9.13592)
Route Type: International
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