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MEC → UIO
Which side of the plane to sit from Eloy Alfaro International Airport (Manta) to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point for the 'Avenue of Volcanoes', including views of the iconic Cotopaxi and a dramatic close-up of the snow-capped Cayambe during the approach to Quito.
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Cotopaxi Volcano
One of the world's highest active volcanoes, famous for its nearly perfect symmetrical snow-capped cone.
Cayambe Volcano
A massive, glacier-clad volcano that sits directly on the Equator, visible clearly during the approach to UIO.
Quito Valley Sprawl
Views of the dense urban landscape of the capital stretching through the narrow Andean valley.
The Illinizas
The twin peaks of Illiniza North and South provide a rugged silhouette against the horizon mid-flight.
Pacoche Rainforest
A glimpse of the protected semi-dry forest reserve shortly after departing the Manta area.
The right side is the 'volcano side'. For the most dramatic photos, book the earliest flight possible (6:00 AM - 8:00 AM) to catch the sunrise light hitting the glaciers of Cayambe and Cotopaxi. During the final descent into Tababela (UIO), the plane often turns, giving this side an intimate view of the high-altitude paramo landscape.
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Manta Bay and Port
Immediate views of the Pacific coastline and Ecuador's largest tuna fishing fleet right after takeoff.
Chocó Foothills
The dense, tropical green transition where the coastal plains meet the rising Western Cordillera.
Pichincha Volcano
The active stratovolcano complex that looms directly over the city of Quito as you cross into the highland basin.
Cloud Forest Vistas
Frequent sightings of the unique cloud forest canopy often draped in mist on the western Andean slopes.
Sit on the left if you want a better view of the northern volcanic peaks like Cotacachi during the final descent. Morning flights are essential as the 'garúa' (coastal mist) and Andean clouds typically thicken by 11:00 AM, obscuring the terrain.
Get eSIMs for Ecuador
Get eSIMs for EcuadorDistance: 274 km (170 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 27 min
Departure: MEC (-0.9460780024528505, -80.67880249023438)
Arrival: UIO (-0.129166666667, -78.3575)
Route Type: Domestic
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