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Which side of the plane to sit from London Gatwick Airport (London) to Rabil Airport (Boa Vista)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is the clear winner, offering a spectacular sequence of island views, including the Channel Islands, a high-altitude traverse of the Canary Islands, and the most iconic landmarks of Boa Vista during the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏝️

Channel Islands

Clear views of Jersey and Guernsey appearing shortly after crossing the English coast.

⛰️

Northern Spain Peaks

The rugged coastline of Galicia and the distant, snow-capped Picos de Europa mountain range.

🌋

Canary Islands Archipelago

A stunning mid-flight highlight featuring the volcanic terrains of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.

🚢

Cabo Santa Maria Shipwreck

The famous rusted hull of the Spanish cargo ship wrecked on the northern shores of Boa Vista.

🏜️

Viana Desert

The striking white sand dunes of Boa Vista that look like a piece of the Sahara dropped into the ocean.

For the best experience, sit on the right and keep your camera ready for the final 20 minutes of the flight. The approach into Rabil Airport typically passes the northern coast of the island, where the Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck is visible. During mid-flight, approximately 3.5 hours in, the volcanic craters of the Canaries are best viewed from this side.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

English Channel & Seven Sisters

Aerial views of the iconic white chalk cliffs of the Sussex coast and the busy shipping lanes below.

🍷

Bordeaux & Gironde Estuary

The sweeping curves of the French Atlantic coast and the vast estuaries of the famous wine-growing regions.

🇵🇹

Lisbon & Tagus River

Distances views of the Portuguese capital, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the mouth of the Tagus.

🏖️

Algarve Coastline

The dramatic golden limestone cliffs and hidden coves of Southern Portugal before heading out over the deep Atlantic.

The left side is preferable on morning departures to keep the sun on the opposite side of the aircraft. It provides the best perspective of the European mainland's western edge. Look out approximately 2 hours after departure for the Portuguese coast; clear days offer views deep into the Iberian Peninsula.

Top Activities in Boa Vista
Route Information

Distance: 4,385 km (2,725 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 10 min

Departure: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Arrival: BVC (16.136499404907227, -22.888900756835938)

Route Type: International

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