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SDU → MEA
Which side of the plane to sit from Santos Dumont Airport (Rio De Janeiro) to Macaé Airport (Macaé)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a front-row seat to the stunning 'Sun Coast' (Costa do Sol), featuring the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Arraial do Cabo and the exclusive Búzios peninsula before descending into the oil capital.
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Sugarloaf Mountain
An iconic close-up of Pão de Açúcar and the Urca district immediately after departure depending on the wind.
Arraial do Cabo
Stunning views of the turquoise waters and white sands of Pontal do Atalaia, often called the Brazilian Caribbean.
Búzios Peninsula
The distinct, jagged shape of the Armação dos Búzios peninsula jutting out into the deep blue Atlantic.
Campos Basin Support
Dozens of specialized oil industry vessels and supply ships anchored near the Macaé shoreline.
This is the premier side for this coastal route. Sit here to witness the dramatic transition from Rio's urban beauty to the white-sand dunes of the Lagos region. Morning flights are best to avoid the sun's direct reflection on the ocean surface, providing the best clarity for the reef colors below.
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Guanabara Bay
Immediate panoramic view of the historic bay and Rio's downtown skyline upon takeoff from SDU.
Rio-Niterói Bridge
A birds-eye view of the 13-kilometer engineering marvel stretching across the water below.
Serra do Mar
The lush, Atlantic Forest-covered mountain range that follows the coastline further inland.
Araruama Lagoon
The vast expanse of one of the world's largest hypersaline lagoons, shimmering with salt-rich waters.
Choose this side for views of the mountainous interior and the intricate lagoon systems. Afternoon flights are ideal as the sun highlights the green peaks of the Serra do Mar while preventing heavy ocean glare. Watch for the Rio-Niterói bridge immediately after wheels up if taking off to the north.
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Get eSIMs for BrazilDistance: 157 km (98 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 16 min
Departure: SDU (-22.910499572800003, -43.1631011963)
Arrival: MEA (-22.343000412, -41.7659988403)
Route Type: Domestic
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