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GIG → OPO
Which side of the plane to sit from Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro) to Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning views of Rio upon departure, the right side is superior for the approach into Portugal. It typically provides a front-row seat to the beautiful Portuguese coastline, the Silver Coast, and the final descent over the Douro River into Porto.
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Guanabara Bay
Exceptional views of the Rio-Niteroi bridge and the city's complex coastal geography after takeoff.
Região dos Lagos
Clear views of the turquoise waters and white sand beaches of Cabo Frio and Arraial do Cabo.
Atlantic Sunrise
Experience a spectacular sunrise over the ocean as the aircraft nears the European continent.
Portuguese Silver Coast
Detailed views of the rugged cliffs and beaches of central Portugal, including Peniche and Nazaré.
Douro River Valley
The winding Douro River and the outskirts of the Gaia district as you approach OPO airport.
The right side is the definitive winner for the morning arrival in Porto. Most flights from GIG are overnight, landing in Porto early in the morning. This side allows you to see the sun rise over the Atlantic and provides the best perspective of the Portuguese coastline. For the best views of Rio at the start, check the wind direction; a north-heading takeoff provides the most immediate coastal scenery on the right.
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Rio de Janeiro Skyline
Aerial views of the Corcovado mountain and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue if departing southward.
Serra do Mar
The lush, green mountain ranges of the Brazilian coast fading into the horizon.
Starlit Atlantic
On clear overnight flights, the absence of light pollution offers exceptional views of the Milky Way.
Azores Proximity
Potential distant views of the cloud-capped peaks of the Azores archipelago during the mid-flight crossing.
The left side is best for sunset enthusiasts during the initial climb out of Brazil. However, during the arrival in Porto, you will mostly see the open Atlantic Ocean until the very final moments of the landing sequence. Choose this side if you prefer a view of the sunset and less direct morning glare.
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Get eSIMs for PortugalDistance: 7,965 km (4,949 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 22 min
Departure: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Arrival: OPO (41.2481002808, -8.68138980865)
Route Type: International
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