While takeoff offers salt pond views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery with Monte Verde's volcanic peak and Mindelo's coastal setting. The left side captures the most geographically significant features of the destination.
Flown SID to VXE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Amilcar Cabral to Sao Vicente Island is 139 miles (224 km), a flight of about 55 minutes.
The flight path crosses open Atlantic Ocean between Sal Island and São Vicente Island. At midpoint, passengers may glimpse Santo Antão Island to the north (the largest island in the Cape Verde archipelago with steep volcanic peaks). The ocean crossing itself shows deep blue water with occasional cloud formations. No significant land features exist between the two islands—the route is primarily over water with the distant volcanic peaks of the destination islands becoming gradually more distinct as the aircraft approaches.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from SID
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Sal Island's eastern coastline and the Atlantic Ocean as the aircraft climbs northwestward. The island's flat terrain and bright white salt ponds are distinctive from altitude.
Landing at VXE
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of São Vicente Island's dramatic volcanic terrain and Monte Verde mountain during the descent approach. The island's rugged topography and coastal features are most visible from the western approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Amilcar Cabral International (SID) to Sao Pedro (VXE)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Amilcar Cabral to Sao Vicente Island. While takeoff offers salt pond views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery with Monte Verde's volcanic peak and Mindelo's coastal setting. The left side captures the most geographically significant features of the destination.
What can I see during takeoff from Amilcar Cabral International in Amilcar Cabral?
During takeoff from Amilcar Cabral International (SID), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Sal Island's eastern coastline and the Atlantic Ocean as the aircraft climbs northwestward. The island's flat terrain and bright white salt ponds are distinctive from altitude. Notable sights include: Sal Island's salt evaporation ponds (bright white geometric patterns), Santa Maria town on the southern coast, Atlantic Ocean to the east, Boa Vista Island visible in the distance to the northeast.
What can I see when landing at Sao Pedro in Sao Vicente Island?
When landing at Sao Pedro (VXE), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of São Vicente Island's dramatic volcanic terrain and Monte Verde mountain during the descent approach. The island's rugged topography and coastal features are most visible from the western approach. Notable sights include: Monte Verde (highest peak on São Vicente at 725 meters), Mindelo city and harbor on the southern coast, the narrow channel between São Vicente and Santo Antão Island to the northwest, rocky volcanic coastline.
How long is the flight from Amilcar Cabral to Sao Vicente Island?
The flight from Amilcar Cabral International (SID) to Sao Pedro (VXE) takes about 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 139 miles (224 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Amilcar Cabral to Sao Vicente Island flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses open Atlantic Ocean between Sal Island and São Vicente Island. At midpoint, passengers may glimpse Santo Antão Island to the north (the largest island in the Cape Verde archipelago with steep volcanic peaks). The ocean crossing itself shows deep blue water with occasional cloud formations. No significant land features exist between the two islands—the route is primarily over water with the distant volcanic peaks of the destination islands becoming gradually more distinct as the aircraft approaches.