Loading map...
SLZ → GIG
Which side of the plane to sit from Marechal Cunha Machado International Airport (Sao Luis) to Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior experience, particularly during the descent into Rio de Janeiro, providing stunning views of the coastline, the Regiao dos Lagos, and a panoramic entry into the Guanabara Bay.
Ilha de São Luís
Aerial view of the island city and the surrounding historical architectural ensemble shortly after takeoff.
Atlantic Coastline
Vast views of the Brazilian eastern coast where the deep blue ocean meets the white sands of the Northeast.
Região dos Lagos
The brilliant turquoise waters and lagoons of Búzios, Cabo Frio, and Arraial do Cabo during the initial descent.
Rio-Niterói Bridge
A grand perspective of the 13-kilometer bridge connecting the two major cities across the bay.
Niterói Waterfront
Clear views of the Icaraí beach and the MAC (Museum of Contemporary Art) before the final touchdown.
Book a seat on the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct afternoon sun glare. About 25 minutes before landing, look for the transition from open sea to the iconic white-sand peninsulas of the Rio state coast. If the flight arrives from the north via the 'PIRA' arrival route, this side provides the best view of the bay entry.
Maranhão Interior
Vast expanses of transitional vegetation and winding river basins in the northern interior.
São Francisco River
A chance to spot the 'River of National Integration' as the flight path crosses the Brazilian sertão.
Serra do Espinhaço
The rugged, ancient mountain ranges of Minas Gerais, visible during the mid-to-late stage of the flight.
Serra da Mantiqueira
Lush, high-altitude peaks and cloud forests as the plane approaches the border of Rio de Janeiro state.
Northern Rio Suburbs
Dense urban landscapes and potentially the Maracanã Stadium if the flight uses a specific western approach pattern.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the interior mountains of Minas Gerais. Keep your camera ready for the crossing of the São Francisco River, which is a major geographical milestone on this north-to-south route. Note that views of the city center depend heavily on the wind-directed runway usage at GIG.
Distance: 2,251 km (1,399 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs
Departure: SLZ (-2.585360050201416, -44.23410034179688)
Arrival: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.