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REC → GIG
Which side of the plane to sit from Guararapes - Gilberto Freyre International Airport (Recife) to Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers an unparalleled view of the Brazilian coastline, featuring turquoise coral reefs in Alagoas and a scenic entry into Rio de Janeiro's Guanabara Bay.
Search flights from REC to GIG
Boa Viagem Beach
Immediate views of Recife's iconic urban shoreline and reef barriers right after takeoff.
Costa dos Corais
Exquisite views of the turquoise natural pools and coral reefs stretching along the Alagoas coast.
Baía de Todos os Santos
A wide perspective of Salvador's massive bay and the historic Lower City peninsula.
Abrolhos Archipelago
Potential sightings of the isolated islands and deep blue waters of the marine national park.
Guanabara Bay Entrance
A breathtaking approach into Rio, showcasing the Niterói Bridge and the silhouette of Sugarloaf Mountain.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is essential for the scenic arrival into Rio, as most flight paths for GIG descend over the ocean before turning into the bay. Look out for the vibrant transition of water colors from Recife down to Maceió.
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Pernambuco Sertão
The rugged, semi-arid landscape of the interior visible during the initial climb.
São Francisco River
A view of the 'River of National Unity' as it winds through the dry landscape toward the sea.
Serra do Espinhaço
The southern stretches of this ancient mountain range provide deep green valleys and rocky peaks.
Mantiqueira Mountains
High-altitude Atlantic Forest ridges visible during the descent into the state of Rio.
Organ Mountains
Look for the famous 'Dedo de Deus' (Finger of God) peak near Teresópolis during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the mountains of Minas Gerais and Rio. Keep an eye out for the distinct change from the dry northeast vegetation to the lush, jagged peaks of the Serra do Mar as you head south.
Book Hotels in Rio De JaneiroDistance: 1,859 km (1,155 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 29 min
Departure: REC (-8.126489639282228, -34.923599243164055)
Arrival: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Route Type: Domestic
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