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PUQ → RGL
Which side of the plane to sit from Pdte. Carlos Ibañez del Campo Airport (Punta Arenas) to Piloto Civil N. Fernández Airport (Rio Gallegos)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the historic Strait of Magellan immediately after takeoff and provides a dramatic perspective of the Atlantic coastline and the Gallegos River estuary upon arrival.
Strait of Magellan
Direct views of the legendary maritime passage that separates mainland South America from Tierra del Fuego.
Shipping Lanes
Frequent sightings of large cargo vessels and tankers navigating the narrow, treacherous waters.
Cabo Vírgenes
The southeastern tip of the continent where the Strait meets the Atlantic Ocean, home to large penguin colonies.
Gallegos River Estuary
The winding, turquoise waters of the river as it merges with the Atlantic just before landing at RGL.
Sit on the right side for morning flights to witness the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. This side provides the best view of the water for the duration of this short 30-40 minute flight. Keep your eyes peeled for the lighthouse at Cabo Vírgenes as you approach the Argentine coast.
Brunswick Peninsula
Aerial views of the rugged, windswept terrain surrounding Punta Arenas and the Otway Sound.
Pali Aike Volcanic Field
Unique landscape featuring ancient craters and dark basaltic lava flows near the border.
Patagonian Pampa
Vast stretches of golden grasslands and remote sheep farming estates characteristic of the region.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to enjoy better lighting on the distant mountains. On very clear days, you might catch a glimpse of the southernmost peaks of the Andes to the far west. Look for the geometric patterns of traditional estancias (ranches) dotted across the plains.
Distance: 187 km (116 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 19 min
Departure: PUQ (-53.002602, -70.854599)
Arrival: RGL (-51.6089, -69.3126)
Route Type: International
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