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UIO → LOH
Which side of the plane to sit from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito) to Camilo Ponce Enriquez Airport (La Toma (Catamayo))?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a front-row seat to the most iconic peaks of the 'Avenue of the Volcanoes,' including the perfectly symmetrical Cotopaxi and the frequently active Sangay.
Cotopaxi Volcano
View the majestic, snow-capped cone of one of the world's highest active volcanoes shortly after takeoff.
Antisana Ecological Reserve
Observe the massive glaciers of Antisana looming to the east of the flight path.
Tungurahua Volcano
Spot the imposing peak near Baños, known for its frequent volcanic activity and dramatic ash plumes.
Sangay Volcano
Look for the constant steam or ash clouds rising from this highly active and remote volcano further south.
Podocarpus National Park
Marvel at the dense, high-altitude cloud forests as you begin your descent toward Loja.
Book an early morning flight (before 08:00 AM) to avoid the typical afternoon cloud cover that obscures the peaks. Sit a few rows behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of Cotopaxi. During the morning, the sun will be behind you or to the side, providing excellent lighting for photography of the eastern cordillera.
Illinizas Twin Peaks
See the jagged North and South Illinizas standing prominently to the west of the route.
Chimborazo Volcano
Witness the massive dome of the highest mountain in Ecuador, whose summit is the point on Earth closest to the sun.
Cuenca Basin
Catch a glimpse of the sprawling colonial city of Cuenca nestled in the Andean highlands mid-flight.
Cajas National Park
View the rugged, lake-filled moorlands of the western cordillera as you traverse the southern Andes.
Catamayo Valley
Experience the dramatic landscape shift to the dry, semi-arid terrain of the Catamayo valley during the final approach.
The right side is superior for viewing Chimborazo, which remains visible for a significant portion of the flight. For the landing at LOH, the right side offers a thrilling perspective of the steep descent into the narrow valley. Late afternoon flights provide warm, golden light on the western slopes, though cloud cover is more likely than in the morning.
Distance: 444 km (276 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 44 min
Departure: UIO (-0.129166666667, -78.3575)
Arrival: LOH (-3.99589, -79.371902)
Route Type: Domestic
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