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ZAL → SCL
Which side of the plane to sit from Pichoy Airport (Valdivia) to Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (Santiago)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled panorama of the Andes Mountains, featuring a sequence of Chile's most iconic active volcanoes and snow-capped peaks.
Volcán Villarrica
One of Chile's most active volcanoes, often seen with a distinct plume of smoke near the start of the flight.
Volcán Llaima
A massive, snow-covered stratovolcano located within the Conguillío National Park.
Nevados de Chillán
A dramatic complex of volcanic cones often heavily laden with snow throughout the year.
High Andes Peaks
Towering peaks near Santiago, including glimpses of Tupungato and the high alpine terrain.
Santiago Basin
The dramatic entrance into the Santiago valley with the city nestled against the massive mountain wall.
The right side is the definitive choice for volcano spotting. For the best photography, choose a seat forward of the wing or at the very back to avoid engine heat distortion. Morning flights are spectacular as the sun illuminates the eastern faces of the Andes. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff from ZAL to catch the Villarrica and Llaima volcanoes in quick succession.
Pacific Horizon
Distant views of the Pacific Ocean coastline shimmering beyond the lower coastal mountain range.
Central Valley Vineyards
The geometric patterns of famous wine regions like Maule and Colchagua as you fly northward.
Coastal Cordillera
The rugged, green-carpeted hills of the Cordillera de la Costa, showing a contrast to the high Andes.
Rancagua Cityscape
A clear view of the urban layout of Rancagua and the surrounding agricultural industry before the final descent.
Sit on the left for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side provides a better perspective of the vast agricultural basins and the transition from the humid south to the Mediterranean central zone. It is also ideal for spotting the coastal fog (Camanchaca) rolling in towards the valley.
Distance: 725 km (450 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 13 min
Departure: ZAL (-39.6500015259, -73.08609771729999)
Arrival: SCL (-33.393001556396484, -70.78579711914062)
Route Type: Domestic
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