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GIG → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most iconic views during the departure from Rio de Janeiro, including the city's unique topography and coastline, followed by the dramatic entry into the Iberian Peninsula over the Portuguese cliffs.
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Rio de Janeiro Skyline
Upon takeoff from GIG, you often get a sweeping view of the Guanabara Bay, the Niterói Bridge, and the city's mountainous backdrop.
Serra do Mar
Lush, green mountain ranges along the Brazilian coast that provide a dramatic contrast to the Atlantic blue.
Costa do Sol
Stunning views of the turquoise waters and white sands of Cabo Frio and Búzios as the plane heads northeast.
Cabo de São Vicente
The first sight of Europe is often the rugged, wind-swept cliffs of southwestern Portugal.
Castilian Plateau
As you descend into Madrid, the reddish-brown earth and ancient villages of central Spain come into view.
For the best experience, choose a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Most flights are overnight; for the Rio departure, ensure you are ready as soon as the wheels lift, as the city views happen quickly. On the morning approach into Madrid, the left side usually avoids the direct glare of the rising sun while offering better views of the city center during certain landing patterns on runways 32L or 18L.
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Atlantic Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the deep Atlantic Ocean, often featuring beautiful cloud formations.
Mid-Atlantic Sunrise
As a northbound overnight flight, the right side is perfectly positioned to witness the sunrise over the ocean.
Canary Islands
Depending on the specific flight path, you may see the volcanic silhouettes of islands like Tenerife or Lanzarote in the distance.
Costa de la Luz
Distant views of the southern Spanish coastline as the plane crosses into European airspace.
Madrid Airport Approach
Excellent views of the sprawling Terminal 4 architecture, known for its undulating bamboo ceiling, when landing.
The right side is the 'sunrise side.' If you enjoy watching the transition from night to day over the open ocean, this is the side for you. Be aware that the sun can be quite intense during the final two hours of the flight, so you may need to lower your shade periodically. If the flight path takes a more easterly route, you might catch a glimpse of the African coast near Western Sahara or Morocco.
Book Hotels in MadridDistance: 8,146 km (5,062 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 35 min
Departure: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
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