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LAD → GIG
Which side of the plane to sit from Quatro de Fevereiro Airport (Luanda) to Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior as it offers a view of the Luanda city center and port during departure, and most critically, provides the iconic panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro's mountainous coastline and landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain during the approach into Galeão.
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Luanda Marginal
Excellent views of the Luanda waterfront, the Ilha do Cabo, and the modernizing city skyline immediately after takeoff.
Oceanic Sunset
On late afternoon flights, this side experiences spectacular sunsets over the open water as you fly toward Brazil.
Região dos Lagos
The first sight of Brazil often includes the turquoise waters and white dunes of Cabo Frio and Búzios.
Rio de Janeiro Landmarks
The 'money shot' featuring Sugarloaf Mountain, the Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado, and the urban beaches.
Rio-Niterói Bridge
A dramatic view of the 13km bridge spanning Guanabara Bay just moments before touching down at GIG.
To see Rio's famous peaks, choose a seat on the right and try to book a flight that arrives during daylight hours. During the approach, the pilot often follows the coastline; the right side typically faces the city. Be sure to sit behind or in front of the wing for an unobstructed view of the mountainous topography that makes Rio a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Mussulo Peninsula
A stunning view of the 30km long sandspit south of Luanda as the plane climbs over the Atlantic.
South Atlantic Expanse
Hours of deep blue ocean views, often featuring unique maritime cloud formations near the Equator.
Guanabara Bay Entry
Views of the naval fortifications and the entrance to the bay during the final descent into Rio.
Niteroi Skyline
Look for the futuristic Niterói Contemporary Art Museum designed by Oscar Niemeyer on the bay's edge.
The left side is ideal for passengers who prefer to avoid direct afternoon sunlight when flying westward across the South Atlantic. It offers a great view of the Angolan coastline shortly after takeoff from LAD. On approach to GIG, if the plane circles from the south, you might catch a glimpse of the Atlantic islands off the coast of Rio.
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Get eSIMs for BrazilDistance: 6,200 km (3,853 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 18 min
Departure: LAD (-8.858369999999999, 13.2312)
Arrival: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Route Type: International
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