While the takeoff offers dramatic Andes views on the left, the landing approach on the right provides sustained coastal scenery—the bay, islands, and Atlantic—which is more visually rewarding over the longer duration of descent. The right side captures the destination's defining geography.
Flown SCL to FLN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Santiago to Florianopolis is 1,378 miles (2,217 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
The flight crosses the Argentine-Chilean border region over the southern Andes foothills, then transitions over the Argentine pampas and Paraná Plateau. Notable midpoint features include the Neuquén Province lowlands, the Paraná River valley (visible as a wide, meandering watercourse in the final approach phase), and the transition from subtropical inland terrain to the Atlantic coastal zone near southern Brazil.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from SCL
LEFTLeft side offers immediate views of the Andes cordillera rising east of Santiago. The eastern escarpment and high peaks are dramatic during climb-out, while the right side faces the Pacific coastal plain with less visual interest.
Landing at FLN
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Atlantic coastline, Baía de Santa Catarina, and the barrier islands that define Florianópolis's geography. The approach path typically descends from the west, making the right side ideal for coastal and island views.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL) to Hercilio Luz (FLN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Santiago to Florianopolis. While the takeoff offers dramatic Andes views on the left, the landing approach on the right provides sustained coastal scenery—the bay, islands, and Atlantic—which is more visually rewarding over the longer duration of descent. The right side captures the destination's defining geography.
What can I see during takeoff from Arturo Merino Benitez International in Santiago?
During takeoff from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers immediate views of the Andes cordillera rising east of Santiago. The eastern escarpment and high peaks are dramatic during climb-out, while the right side faces the Pacific coastal plain with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Andes Mountains (eastern wall), Santiago urban sprawl, Maipo River valley, Aconcagua massif (distant).
What can I see when landing at Hercilio Luz in Florianopolis?
When landing at Hercilio Luz (FLN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Atlantic coastline, Baía de Santa Catarina, and the barrier islands that define Florianópolis's geography. The approach path typically descends from the west, making the right side ideal for coastal and island views. Notable sights include: Baía de Santa Catarina (large enclosed bay), Florianópolis barrier islands, Atlantic coastline, Camboriu River estuary.
How long is the flight from Santiago to Florianopolis?
The flight from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL) to Hercilio Luz (FLN) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,378 miles (2,217 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Santiago to Florianopolis flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Argentine-Chilean border region over the southern Andes foothills, then transitions over the Argentine pampas and Paraná Plateau. Notable midpoint features include the Neuquén Province lowlands, the Paraná River valley (visible as a wide, meandering watercourse in the final approach phase), and the transition from subtropical inland terrain to the Atlantic coastal zone near southern Brazil.