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SDU → SJK
Which side of the plane to sit from Santos Dumont Airport (Rio De Janeiro) to Professor Urbano Ernesto Stumpf Airport (Sao Jose Dos Campos)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro's famous coastline immediately upon takeoff, followed by the stunning emerald waters of the Costa Verde and Ilha Grande.
Rio's Iconic Beaches
Breathtaking aerial views of Copacabana, Ipanema, and Lebon beaches shortly after departing from SDU.
Ilha Grande
Massive forested island known for its turquoise waters and rugged coastline as you fly toward the southwest.
Costa Verde
The emerald coast of Angra dos Reis, where the mountains of the Serra do Mar meet the Atlantic Ocean.
Angra Archipelago
Clusters of small tropical islands and luxury marinas scattered throughout the bay.
Ubatuba Coastline
Dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches visible as the plane begins its inland turn toward the Paraiba Valley.
Sit on the left for the most iconic Rio departure. Aim for a morning flight (08:00-10:00) to have the sun behind you, illuminating the coastline perfectly. If the plane takes off towards the south, you will get a direct view of the Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf within seconds of lift-off.
Rio-Niteroi Bridge
A massive engineering feat spanning across the Guanabara Bay visible during the initial climb.
Serra do Mar
Dense, cloud-covered Atlantic Forest mountain ranges that run parallel to the flight path.
Itatiaia National Park
In the distance, the sharp peaks of Brazil's oldest national park can be seen on clear days.
Paraiba Valley
The industrial and urban heart of the region, showing the density of Sao Paulo's interior.
Embraer Facilities
As you descend into SJK, you can see the massive aircraft hangars and testing strips of Embraer.
The right side is ideal for mountain enthusiasts. Choose this side for late afternoon flights (16:00-17:30) to see the golden hour light hitting the Serra do Mar peaks. It also provides a better view of the industrial landscape and the massive Embraer factory complex during the final approach into Sao Jose dos Campos.
Distance: 278 km (173 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 28 min
Departure: SDU (-22.910499572800003, -43.1631011963)
Arrival: SJK (-23.22920036315918, -45.86149978637695)
Route Type: Domestic
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