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UIO → ETR
Which side of the plane to sit from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito) to Santa Rosa International Airport (Santa Rosa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a front-row seat to the iconic 'Avenue of Volcanoes,' offering breathtaking views of massive snow-capped peaks like Cotopaxi and Chimborazo as the flight tracks south through the Andes.
Cotopaxi Volcano
One of the highest active volcanoes in the world, featuring a near-perfect symmetrical cone and massive glaciers.
Antisana Volcano
A giant glacier-covered stratovolcano that dominates the landscape shortly after departing Quito.
Chimborazo
Ecuador's highest peak and the point on Earth's surface closest to the Sun, visible mid-flight.
Tungurahua
An active volcano often seen emitting plumes of steam in the distance to the southeast.
Andean Plateaus
The beautiful patchwork of high-altitude agricultural fields spanning the valley between the mountain ranges.
For the most dramatic views, book an early morning flight (before 09:00 AM) when the mountain air is clearest and volcanoes are less likely to be obscured by clouds. Request a seat in the front or rear of the cabin to avoid the wing blocking the view of Cotopaxi, which usually appears 10 to 15 minutes after takeoff.
Illiniza Twins
Two distinct peaks, Illiniza Norte and Sur, offering rugged alpine views shortly after takeoff.
Gulf of Guayaquil
Expansive views of the Pacific coastline and the largest estuary on the West Coast of South America during descent.
Guayaquil Horizon
On clear days, the skyline of Ecuador's largest city can be spotted in the distance to the west.
Banana Plantations
Vast, emerald-green expanses of banana and cocoa estates typical of the fertile El Oro province.
Shrimp Farms
The unique geometric patterns of aquaculture ponds visible as you approach the coast near Santa Rosa.
The right side is particularly interesting during the final 20 minutes of the flight. As the plane descends rapidly from the Andes to sea level, you can observe the dramatic transition from mountain paramo to tropical mangroves. Look for the glint of the Jubones River as it nears the coast.
Distance: 411 km (255 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 41 min
Departure: UIO (-0.129166666667, -78.3575)
Arrival: ETR (-3.441986, -79.996957)
Route Type: Domestic
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