While cruise scenery is mostly flat Gulf and Brazilian interior on both sides, the right side wins decisively because of the spectacular Rio arrival sequence over Guanabara Bay with Sugarloaf and Christ the Redeemer in view.
Flight Path
Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea near Cuba, Amazon rainforest fringes, Brazilian Highlands (Cerrado plateau)
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from IAH
RIGHTDeparting IAH southbound on the 15 runways, the right side gives a brief look back at Houston's downtown skyline and the sprawling suburban grid before the aircraft climbs over flat coastal plains toward the Gulf of Mexico. Neither side offers dramatic terrain here, but the skyline glimpse gives the right a slight edge.
Landing at GIG
RIGHTOn approach to GIG's runway 10, arrivals typically curve in from the west over Guanabara Bay, putting Rio's signature landmarks on the right side of the aircraft. Passengers get a classic view of Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado, and Copacabana's curving beachfront as the plane descends toward the bay.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from George Bush Intcntl Houston (IAH) to Galeao Antonio Carlos Jobim (GIG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Houston to Rio De Janeiro. While cruise scenery is mostly flat Gulf and Brazilian interior on both sides, the right side wins decisively because of the spectacular Rio arrival sequence over Guanabara Bay with Sugarloaf and Christ the Redeemer in view.
What can I see during takeoff from George Bush Intcntl Houston in Houston?
During takeoff from George Bush Intcntl Houston (IAH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing IAH southbound on the 15 runways, the right side gives a brief look back at Houston's downtown skyline and the sprawling suburban grid before the aircraft climbs over flat coastal plains toward the Gulf of Mexico. Neither side offers dramatic terrain here, but the skyline glimpse gives the right a slight edge. Notable sights include: Houston downtown skyline, Sam Houston Tollway loop, Houston Ship Channel industrial complex.
What can I see when landing at Galeao Antonio Carlos Jobim in Rio De Janeiro?
When landing at Galeao Antonio Carlos Jobim (GIG), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach to GIG's runway 10, arrivals typically curve in from the west over Guanabara Bay, putting Rio's signature landmarks on the right side of the aircraft. Passengers get a classic view of Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado, and Copacabana's curving beachfront as the plane descends toward the bay. Notable sights include: Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado, Guanabara Bay, Copacabana Beach.
How long is the flight from Houston to Rio De Janeiro?
The flight from George Bush Intcntl Houston (IAH) to Galeao Antonio Carlos Jobim (GIG) takes 9h27m.
What does the Houston to Rio De Janeiro flight path pass over?
Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea near Cuba, Amazon rainforest fringes, Brazilian Highlands (Cerrado plateau)