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IOS → GRU
Which side of the plane to sit from Bahia - Jorge Amado Airport (Ilheus) to Guarulhos - Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport (Sao Paulo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior coastal perspective, offering views of the turquoise Bahian shoreline, the Espírito Santo capital, and the dramatic interface between the Atlantic Ocean and the Serra do Mar mountains.
Costa do Cacau
Immediate views of Ilhéus' pristine southern beaches and dense coconut groves right after takeoff.
Vitória & Vila Velha
A clear aerial view of the Espírito Santo coastline, including the harbor and the Great Third Bridge.
Região dos Lagos
The distinctive white sand peninsulas of Búzios and Cabo Frio visible as the plane nears Rio de Janeiro state.
Serra do Mar
The breathtaking sight of the coastal mountain range dropping sharply into the Atlantic Ocean.
Rio de Janeiro Coastline
On clear days, the distant but recognizable silhouette of Rio's mountainous coast can be seen before turning inland.
For morning flights, the left side (typically seats 'A') is ideal as the sun rises over the ocean, beautifully illuminating the coastline. During the descent into Guarulhos, this side offers the best chance to see the transition from deep blue waters to the lush green escarpments of the Serra do Mar. Check the weather forecast for Rio; if it is clear, the coastal views are unmatched.
Atlantic Forest Biome
Expansive views of some of the best-preserved stretches of Brazil's coastal rainforest.
River Basins
The winding paths of the Jequitinhonha and Doce rivers as they cut through the interior landscape.
Caparaó Mountains
Distant glimpses of high-altitude peaks, including the area surrounding Pico da Bandeira.
Paraíba Valley
The industrial heartland of São Paulo, featuring a string of interconnected cities and factories.
Urban Sprawl
An incredible perspective of the sheer density and scale of the Greater São Paulo metropolitan area.
The right side (typically seats 'K' or 'F') is better for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. It provides a fascinating look at the 'interior' side of the coastal mountains and the massive urban development as you approach Guarulhos. This side is particularly interesting for those interested in seeing the scale of Brazil's industrial and urban infrastructure.
Distance: 1,236 km (768 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min
Departure: IOS (-14.815999984741, -39.03319931030301)
Arrival: GRU (-23.435556411743164, -46.47305679321289)
Route Type: Domestic
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