Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Quito to Guayaquil. The westbound departure from UIO offers superior mountain scenery with close-range views of active volcanic peaks and the dramatic Andean ridge. The landing approach, while geographically interesting, prioritizes descent over the plain rather than mountain views. Left seats dominate the outbound leg.

During takeoff from Mariscal Sucre International (UIO), sit on the Left side for the best views. UIO typically departs runway 09L/27R or 09R/28L. Westbound departures (runway 09) climb over the western cordillera with the best views of the Andes ridge system and volcanic peaks. Left seats face the mountain chain directly during initial climb. Notable sights include: Pichincha volcano (active, snow-capped), Western Cordillera ridge line, Quito city sprawl in the inter-Andean valley, Cotopaxi volcano visible on the horizon to the south.

When landing at Simon Bolivar International (GYE), sit on the Right side for the best views. GYE approaches from the east on runway 09 or 27 depending on wind. Eastbound final approaches descend over the coastal plain with right seats facing the Andes receding eastward and the transition zone between mountains and lowlands. The descent path offers extended views of the topographic drop-off. Notable sights include: Andes foothills descending westward, Guayas River delta and estuary system, Guayaquil city and port facilities, Pacific coastal plain extending to the horizon.

The flight from Mariscal Sucre International (UIO) to Simon Bolivar International (GYE) takes Approximately 50-60 minutes.

The flight descends westward from the inter-Andean valley (9,200 feet elevation at UIO) through the Western Cordillera passes, crossing into the coastal lowlands. The Andes drop from 13,000+ feet to under 2,000 feet within 80 kilometers. The Guayas River basin becomes visible as the aircraft descends into the coastal plain. Vegetation transitions from high-altitude páramo and cloud forest to tropical deciduous forest and mangrove wetlands. The Pacific coastal plain is relatively flat and featureless at cruise altitude, with scattered towns and agricultural development visible.