Right side edges ahead due to superior takeoff scenery from Curitiba—the city-to-plateau transition and early views of the Paraná Plateau's rolling terrain provide more visual interest than the left side's open plateau departure. Landing views are roughly equal, but the takeoff advantage gives right a slight overall edge on this short, relatively flat route.
Flown CWB to GRU? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Curitiba to Sao Paulo is 223 miles (360 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Paraná Plateau terrain with scattered agricultural land, transition zone between Curitiba's elevation (2,900 ft) and São Paulo's lower elevation (2,400 ft), Tietê River valley approaching São Paulo, scattered towns and highway corridors connecting the two metropolitan areas
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from CWB
RIGHTRight side captures Curitiba's urban sprawl and the immediate transition to the Paraná Plateau's rolling terrain. Left side faces open plateau with minimal early visual interest.

Landing at GRU
LEFTLeft side provides views of the Tietê River valley, São Paulo's sprawling metropolitan area, and the approach into Guarulhos from the west. Right side faces open plateau with less urban definition during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Afonso Pena (CWB) to Guarulhos (GRU)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Curitiba to Sao Paulo. Right side edges ahead due to superior takeoff scenery from Curitiba—the city-to-plateau transition and early views of the Paraná Plateau's rolling terrain provide more visual interest than the left side's open plateau departure. Landing views are roughly equal, but the takeoff advantage gives right a slight overall edge on this short, relatively flat route.
What can I see during takeoff from Afonso Pena in Curitiba?
During takeoff from Afonso Pena (CWB), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures Curitiba's urban sprawl and the immediate transition to the Paraná Plateau's rolling terrain. Left side faces open plateau with minimal early visual interest. Notable sights include: Curitiba city center and suburbs, Paraná Plateau escarpment edge, Serra do Mar foothills to the southeast.
What can I see when landing at Guarulhos in Sao Paulo?
When landing at Guarulhos (GRU), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides views of the Tietê River valley, São Paulo's sprawling metropolitan area, and the approach into Guarulhos from the west. Right side faces open plateau with less urban definition during descent. Notable sights include: Tietê River and its valley, São Paulo metropolitan sprawl, Guarulhos airport and surrounding industrial zones, Serra da Cantareira to the north.
How long is the flight from Curitiba to Sao Paulo?
The flight from Afonso Pena (CWB) to Guarulhos (GRU) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 223 miles (360 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Curitiba to Sao Paulo flight path pass over?
Paraná Plateau terrain with scattered agricultural land, transition zone between Curitiba's elevation (2,900 ft) and São Paulo's lower elevation (2,400 ft), Tietê River valley approaching São Paulo, scattered towns and highway corridors connecting the two metropolitan areas