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MIA → REC
Which side of the plane to sit from Miami International Airport (Miami) to Guararapes - Gilberto Freyre International Airport (Recife)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Bahamian archipelago after takeoff, a spectacular Atlantic sunrise for the typical overnight schedule, and the iconic coastal skyline of Recife upon arrival.
South Beach & Miami Shoreline
Aerial view of Miami's iconic white sands and turquoise coastline immediately following departure.
Exuma Cays
Vibrant turquoise waters and small sandy islands of the Bahamas appearing shortly after takeoff.
Guiana Shield
The ancient, rugged mountain formations of southern Venezuela and Guyana as the flight enters South America.
Amazon Rainforest
An endless carpet of deep green canopy spanning the northern Brazilian states of Roraima and Amazonas.
Atlantic Sunrise
On the typical overnight MIA-REC flights, the left side offers a front-row seat to the sun rising over the ocean.
Boa Viagem Beach
The dramatic wall of skyscrapers lining Recife's coastline visible during the final descent into REC.
Choose a seat in the front or rear of the cabin to avoid the wing. Since this flight is usually an overnight route (7-8 hours), the left side is essential for seeing the sunrise. As you approach Recife in the morning, the morning light illuminates the urban coast perfectly. Watch for the 'Encontro das Águas' if the flight path deviates slightly west over the Amazon basin.
Biscayne Bay
Direct views of the Port of Miami, Key Biscayne, and the stilt houses of Stiltsville.
Caribbean Sea
Deep blue vistas of the open Caribbean and distant views of the Greater Antilles.
Orinoco River Delta
Massive river systems and sediment plumes where the Orinoco meets the Atlantic.
Brazilian Sertão
The unique semi-arid landscape of the Brazilian Northeast with its distinct vegetation and dry riverbeds.
Recife Urban Sprawl
Close-up views of the dense suburban areas surrounding the airport during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for catching the sunset if your flight has an early evening departure from Miami. It also provides a better perspective of the inland topography of Brazil, including the 'Sertão' region. If the airport is landing from the west (less common but possible with certain winds), the right side offers a better view of the city's inland waterways.
Distance: 6,184 km (3,843 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 17 min
Departure: MIA (25.79319953918457, -80.29060363769531)
Arrival: REC (-8.126489639282228, -34.923599243164055)
Route Type: International
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