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RAI → TMS
Which side of the plane to sit from Praia International Airport (Praia, Santiago Island) to São Tomé International Airport (Sao Tome)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is generally superior for this route as the flight path typically tracks the West African coastline. This orientation provides better opportunities to see the transition from the Atlantic Ocean to the continental shelf, including potential views of coastal West African nations before the final descent into the Gulf of Guinea.
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Santiago Island Interior
Aerial view of the rugged, volcanic terrain and arid valleys of Santiago Island immediately after takeoff from Praia.
The African Shelf
The dramatic visual transition where the deep blue Atlantic meets the lighter turquoise waters of the West African continental shelf.
Abidjan Skyline
On clear days and specific routings, the high-rise buildings and lagoons of Ivory Coast's economic capital are visible to the north.
Ghanaian Coastline
Views of the diverse shoreline stretching from Cape Three Points toward the Accra plains as the plane turns south.
Gulf of Guinea Shipping
A high density of oil tankers and cargo ships anchored near the major ports of West Africa.
The left side is ideal for night flights as you can often track the lights of major coastal cities like Monrovia, Abidjan, and Accra. During the day, sit here for better lighting as the sun is usually positioned to the south, reducing window glare. Watch for the sharp contrast between the ocean and the lush green lagoons of the Ivory Coast roughly 3-4 hours into the flight.
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Atlantic Horizon
Unobstructed views of the vast Atlantic Ocean, perfect for capturing sunset colors on late afternoon departures.
Príncipe Island
Depending on the approach pattern, the smaller, UNESCO-protected island of Príncipe may appear in the distance.
Pico de São Tomé
The highest peak in the country, often shrouded in mist, visible as the plane approaches the island from the west.
Obo National Park
Densely forested mountain ridges and primary rainforest canopy that characterize the interior of São Tomé.
Ilhéu das Cabras
The 'Goat Islets' with their twin lighthouses visible just off the northern coast during the final moments of landing.
Choose the right side specifically for the arrival phase. As you descend into TMS, this side offers the most dramatic views of the island's prehistoric-looking 'phonolite' peaks and the dense rainforest. For morning flights, the lighting on the volcanic mountains of São Tomé from this side is spectacular for photography. Be aware that most of the mid-flight journey will be over open water.
Book Hotels in Sao TomeDistance: 3,692 km (2,294 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 21 min
Departure: RAI (14.924500465393065, -23.49349975585937)
Arrival: TMS (0.3781749904155731, 6.712150096893311)
Route Type: International
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