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RAI → OXB
Which side of the plane to sit from Praia International Airport (Praia, Santiago Island) to Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (Bissau)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic transition from the volcanic terrain of Cape Verde to the intricate, mangrove-lined estuaries and the stunning Bijagós Archipelago of West Africa.
Santiago Island Peaks
Aerial view of the rugged volcanic interior of Santiago Island shortly after departure from Praia.
Atlantic Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic where the ocean meets the African continental shelf.
Bijagós Archipelago
Breathtaking views of the northernmost islands of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve during the descent.
Casamance River Delta
The complex network of waterways and mangroves where Senegal meets Guinea-Bissau.
Geba River Estuary
The massive, silty mouth of the Geba River as it opens into the Atlantic Ocean near Bissau.
For morning flights, the left side provides excellent light for photographing the coastline without solar glare. Look for the distinct color change in the water as the deep blue ocean transitions to the sediment-rich green and brown of the river estuaries near Bissau.
Praia Cityscape
A detailed view of the 'Plateau' historic center and the port of Praia during the initial climb.
Atlantic Shipping Lanes
Frequent sightings of large cargo vessels and tankers navigating the West African coast.
Ilha de Bolama
Depending on the approach path, you may see the historic ruins and colonial architecture of Bolama.
Tropical Wetlands
Lush, dense tropical vegetation and seasonal floodplains surrounding the outskirts of Bissau.
Choose the right side on afternoon flights to keep the sun behind you. This side often provides a broader view of the city of Bissau and the airport surroundings if the plane approaches from the south or performs a standard circuit for Runway 21.
Distance: 912 km (567 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min
Departure: RAI (14.924500465393065, -23.49349975585937)
Arrival: OXB (11.894800186157228, -15.65369987487793)
Route Type: International
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