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GIG → SSA
Which side of the plane to sit from Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro) to Deputado Luiz Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (Salvador)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular panoramic tour of the Brazilian coastline, featuring the turquoise lagoons of Rio state, the coral reefs of the Discovery Coast, and a scenic approach over the Bay of All Saints.
Guanabara Bay
An overhead view of the bay's islands and the Niterói coastline during the initial climb.
Região dos Lagos
The brilliant turquoise waters and white sand dunes of Arraial do Cabo, Cabo Frio, and Búzios are clearly visible.
Discovery Coast
Aerial perspective of the high red cliffs and coral reefs surrounding Porto Seguro, Trancoso, and Arraial d'Ajuda.
Maraú Peninsula
Look for the stunning strip of land separating the Atlantic Ocean from the Camamu Bay.
Baía de Todos os Santos
The grand finale featuring the vast bay, the city skyline of Salvador, and the historic Farol da Barra during the descent.
The right side is the undisputed winner for coastal scenery. For the best photography, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, which enhances the vibrant greens and blues of the ocean. During the final approach to Salvador, this side typically offers the best view of the city's unique geography and historic center.
Serra dos Órgãos
Stunning views of the jagged mountain range near Petrópolis, including the iconic Dedo de Deus peak shortly after takeoff.
Pedra Azul
The famous blue-tinted granite dome in the mountains of Espírito Santo, visible when the flight path stays slightly inland.
Bahian Interior
A view of the transition from the Atlantic Forest to the vast agricultural plateaus and rural landscapes of southern Bahia.
Choose the left side for dramatic mountain views during the first 20 minutes of flight. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the peaks of the Serra do Mar without creating glare on your window. Keep a close eye out immediately after departure from GIG for the best mountain silhouettes.
Distance: 1,218 km (757 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min
Departure: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Arrival: SSA (-12.9086112976, -38.3224983215)
Route Type: Domestic
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