Loading map...
IOS → SDU
Which side of the plane to sit from Bahia - Jorge Amado Airport (Ilheus) to Santos Dumont Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unparalleled coastal journey down the Brazilian shoreline, culminating in one of the most spectacular airport approaches in the world into Santos Dumont, featuring close-up views of Rio's iconic landmarks.
Search flights from IOS to SDU
Costa do Cacau
Lush views of the southern Bahia coastline, characterized by dense palm groves and golden beaches.
Serra do Mar
The dramatic mountain range covered in Atlantic Forest that follows the coastline toward Rio de Janeiro.
Região dos Lagos
The brilliant turquoise lagoons and white sand dunes of Cabo Frio and Arraial do Cabo.
Sugarloaf Mountain
An incredibly close-up view of Pão de Açúcar as the plane maneuvers for landing in Guanabara Bay.
Christ the Redeemer
The statue of Cristo Redentor is often visible atop Corcovado mountain during the circling approach.
Rio Skyline
A stunning aerial panorama of the city center, Botafogo bay, and the Flamengo embankment.
This is widely considered one of the best seats in global aviation. To maximize the experience, book an afternoon flight when the sun is behind you, illuminating the Rio landmarks in gold. On the approach to SDU, the pilot usually performs a sharp bank to the left; keep your camera ready as Sugarloaf Mountain will appear surprisingly close to your window.
Book Hotels in Rio De Janeiro
South Atlantic Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic Ocean throughout the majority of the flight path.
Abrolhos Marine Park
On clear days, the turquoise shallow waters of the Abrolhos coral reefs may be visible offshore.
Rio-Niterói Bridge
A view of the 13km bridge connecting Rio to Niterói during the final descent into the bay.
Niterói Skyline
Spot the Oscar Niemeyer-designed Contemporary Art Museum, which resembles a white flying saucer perched on the cliffside.
The left side is best for those who prefer the tranquility of the open sea. During the morning, this side will experience direct sunlight, so keep your window shade down if you want to avoid the glare. On the final approach to SDU Runway 20L, you will have a great view of the Niterói coastline and the naval base.
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Get eSIMs for BrazilDistance: 999 km (621 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 40 min
Departure: IOS (-14.815999984741, -39.03319931030301)
Arrival: SDU (-22.910499572800003, -43.1631011963)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.