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LIS → GIG
Which side of the plane to sit from Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Portela Airport) (Lisbon) to Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides provide a stunning departure from Lisbon, the Right Side is the clear winner for the iconic approach into Rio de Janeiro, often showcasing the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain during the final descent.
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Cabo da Roca
The westernmost point of mainland Europe, visible as the aircraft turns toward the Atlantic.
Atlantic Archipelagoes
Distant glimpses of Madeira or the Canary Islands depending on the specific seasonal air corridor.
Equatorial Cloud Formations
Massive towering cumulonimbus clouds typical of the Intertropical Convergence Zone near the Equator.
Serra do Mar
Lush, emerald-green coastal mountains that define the dramatic topography of the Rio state coastline.
The Christ & Sugarloaf
The world-famous panorama of Corcovado Mountain and the Sugarloaf during the standard arrival pattern.
The right side is the 'money shot' side for Rio. To maximize your chances of seeing the Christ the Redeemer, check the landing direction; if the plane approaches from the south or circles the city, you will have a front-row seat. In the late afternoon, this side also offers a spectacular sunset over the open ocean before the descent begins.
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Lisbon & Tagus River
A sweeping view of the red-tiled roofs of Alfama and the 25 de Abril Bridge shortly after takeoff.
Portuguese Silver Coast
The rugged cliffs and sandy beaches of the Setúbal Peninsula as the plane heads south.
Northeast Brazil Coast
Vibrant turquoise waters and coral reef systems near the cities of Recife and Maceió.
Salvador da Bahia
The historic coastal city and the massive expanse of the All Saints' Bay.
Guanabara Bay Entrance
View of the naval fortifications and the bridge connecting Rio to Niterói during the final approach.
The left side is ideal for travelers who want to track the Brazilian coastline for several hours. Since most LIS-GIG flights are daytime journeys, you will have excellent lighting for the transition from the Atlantic Ocean to the South American continent. It is also the better side for spotting the Ilhas Cagarras just outside the bay.
Get eSIMs for Portugal
Get eSIMs for BrazilDistance: 7,715 km (4,794 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 5 min
Departure: LIS (38.7813, -9.13592)
Arrival: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Route Type: International
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