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NAT → REC
Which side of the plane to sit from Governador Aluízio Alves International Airport (Natal) to Guararapes - Gilberto Freyre International Airport (Recife)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning continuous view of the Northeastern Brazilian coastline, including the iconic cliffs of Pipa, the easternmost point of the Americas, and the turquoise coral reefs of Recife.
Pipa Cliffs
Shortly after takeoff, view the dramatic red cliffs and the Dolphin Bay near Tibau do Sul.
Ponta do Seixas
Look for the easternmost point of the American continent near João Pessoa, marked by a distinct lighthouse.
Coral Reefs
As you enter Pernambuco airspace, the natural sandstone reefs that name the city of Recife become visible under the surf.
Historic Olinda
During the descent, the colonial church towers and colorful hills of this UNESCO World Heritage site appear near the coast.
Choose a window seat on the left for the best morning light to illuminate the ocean. The descent into Recife often follows the coastline closely, providing a spectacular low-altitude view of the urban beaches and the reef barriers. Seats forward of the wing are recommended for unobstructed photography of the coastline.
Potengi River
A view of the winding river and the transition from the city of Natal to the interior salt flats.
Paraíba River Basin
The wide estuary of the Paraíba River as it flows past the western side of João Pessoa.
Recife Urban Core
A view of the dense metropolitan sprawl and the complex river systems that characterize the 'Venice of Brazil'.
The right side is preferable for late afternoon flights to avoid the intense tropical sun reflecting off the Atlantic. It provides a better perspective of the regional infrastructure, including the BR-101 highway and the vast sugarcane plantations that dominate the landscape between the two capitals.
Distance: 267 km (166 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 27 min
Departure: NAT (-5.768056, -35.376111)
Arrival: REC (-8.126489639282228, -34.923599243164055)
Route Type: Domestic
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