At Francisco Mendes in Francisco Mendez: for takeoff, sit on the Right side; for landing, sit on the Left side. Notable views include: Sal Island's volcanic landscape, Santa Maria settlement on the southern coast, the Atlantic Ocean, and the island's salt ponds (salinas) visible in the interior.

When taking off from Francisco Mendes (RAI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Sal Island's interior and the Atlantic coastline as the aircraft climbs out. Most departures from RAI head northwest or northeast over the ocean, so the right side captures the island's volcanic terrain and the surrounding waters before heading out to sea. Notable sights include: Sal Island's volcanic landscape, Santa Maria settlement on the southern coast, the Atlantic Ocean, and the island's salt ponds (salinas) visible in the interior.

When landing at Francisco Mendes (RAI), sit on the Left side for the best views. Most commercial flights approach Praia International Airport from the northeast over the Atlantic, giving left-side passengers direct views of the dramatic volcanic coastline and the city of Praia itself during descent. Right-side views would face inland terrain with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Atlantic Ocean coastline, Praia city and harbor, volcanic terrain of Santiago Island, nearby islets and rocky outcrops.

The best window seat at Francisco Mendes (RAI) depends on several factors: the typical runway used for your departure or arrival, the geographic features around Francisco Mendez (mountains, coastlines, city skylines), weather conditions, and time of day. Morning and evening flights often offer the best lighting for scenic views.