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VCP → SDU
Which side of the plane to sit from Viracopos International Airport (Campinas) to Santos Dumont Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the world-famous postcard view of Rio de Janeiro, including the Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the city's iconic beaches during the final approach into Santos Dumont.
Serra do Mar
Dramatic green mountain ranges covered in lush Atlantic Forest that separate the plateau from the coastline.
Cristo Redentor
The iconic Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain is visible as the aircraft descends towards the bay.
Pão de Açúcar
Spectacular close-up views of the Sugarloaf Mountain as the plane maneuvers for landing at SDU.
Copacabana Beach
Aerial views of the famous crescent-shaped beach and its iconic wave-patterned mosaic sidewalks.
Rio Skyline
A panoramic view of the downtown financial district contrast against the historical buildings of Old Rio.
For the definitive Rio experience, select a window seat on the left (Seat A) behind the wing for an unobstructed view. Most landings at SDU use Runway 02, which requires a turn over the ocean that puts the Christ and Sugarloaf directly on the left. Morning flights are ideal to avoid afternoon haze and get the best lighting on the statues.
Atlantic Coastline
Vast views of the rugged coastline where the mountains meet the deep blue Atlantic waters.
Ilha Grande Bay
Distant glimpses of the emerald waters and numerous islands near the Angra dos Reis region.
Rio-Niterói Bridge
The massive 13-kilometer bridge spanning Guanabara Bay is a prominent feature during the final descent.
Niterói MAC Museum
Oscar Niemeyer's spaceship-shaped Contemporary Art Museum is clearly visible on the Niterói shoreline.
Guanabara Bay
Views of the expansive bay filled with naval ships, tankers, and the smaller islands of the archipelago.
The right side (Seat F) is preferable if you want to see the city of Niterói and the full length of the Rio-Niterói bridge. It is also the better side for sunset flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun while enjoying the colors reflecting off the Guanabara Bay.
Distance: 407 km (253 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 41 min
Departure: VCP (-23.0074005127, -47.1344985962)
Arrival: SDU (-22.910499572800003, -43.1631011963)
Route Type: Domestic
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