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IAH → GIG
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular arrival sequence, often showcasing the Panama Canal during the transit and the iconic Rio de Janeiro skyline, including Christ the Redeemer, during the final descent.
Panama Canal
Frequent sightings of the engineering marvel and ships transiting between the Atlantic and Pacific.
Western Amazon
Incredible views of the dense rainforest and the dramatic clouds that form over the tropical interior.
Cerrado Savanna
The unique landscapes of central Brazil, featuring plateau formations and reddish soil.
Christ the Redeemer
Often visible on the Corcovado mountain during the city approach if the flight path circles from the south.
Sugarloaf Mountain
The famous granite peak guarding the entrance to Guanabara Bay visible during the final minutes of flight.
This is the premier side for the 'Rio Arrival.' Ensure your window is clear for the final 20 minutes of flight; if the pilot orbits the city, you will get a postcard-perfect view of Copacabana and Ipanema. Be aware that the afternoon sun can be intense on this side.
Gulf of Mexico
Expansive views of deep blue waters and offshore oil rigs shortly after departing Houston.
Caribbean Basin
Bird's-eye view of turquoise waters and scattered reefs when passing near the Caribbean islands.
Amazon River Basin
A vast sea of green canopy and winding river tributaries stretching to the eastern horizon.
Costa do Sol
Stunning views of turquoise lagoons and white sands near Arraial do Cabo during the descent.
Rio-Niterói Bridge
Views of the massive bridge spanning Guanabara Bay and the city of Niterói upon final approach.
Sit here for sunrise views over the Atlantic if you are on an overnight flight. During the descent into GIG, look for the 'Região dos Lagos' near Cabo Frio. This side is generally better for sleeping as it avoids the direct afternoon sun when flying south.
Distance: 8,088 km (5,026 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 31 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Route Type: International
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