While left offers good Montreal-area scenery, right provides superior views during the critical descent phase over São Paulo's dramatic urban landscape and mountain backdrop, making it the better choice for the full journey.
Flown YMX to CGH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Montreal to Sao Paulo is 5,088 miles (8,189 km), a flight of about 8 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean for approximately 4,000 nautical miles. Notable features include the Appalachian Mountains visible during the northeastern US portion of climb-out, the Atlantic coastline near Newfoundland, the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (not visible but the aircraft passes over deep ocean), and the Brazilian coastline near Rio de Janeiro during descent. The flight typically passes east of the Caribbean and north of the Amazon Basin.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from YMX
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Ottawa River valley and the Canadian Shield terrain as the aircraft climbs northwestward from Mirabel. Right side faces inland toward less distinctive landscape.
Landing at CGH
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Serra da Mantiqueira mountains and the approach corridor over the densely populated São Paulo metropolitan area, including views of the Tietê River and urban sprawl as the aircraft descends toward Congonhas.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Montreal International Mirabel (YMX) to Congonhas (CGH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Montreal to Sao Paulo. While left offers good Montreal-area scenery, right provides superior views during the critical descent phase over São Paulo's dramatic urban landscape and mountain backdrop, making it the better choice for the full journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Montreal International Mirabel in Montreal?
During takeoff from Montreal International Mirabel (YMX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Ottawa River valley and the Canadian Shield terrain as the aircraft climbs northwestward from Mirabel. Right side faces inland toward less distinctive landscape. Notable sights include: Ottawa River (flowing southeast below), Laurentian Mountains (northern horizon), Lake of Two Mountains (visible to the southwest during initial climb).
What can I see when landing at Congonhas in Sao Paulo?
When landing at Congonhas (CGH), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Serra da Mantiqueira mountains and the approach corridor over the densely populated São Paulo metropolitan area, including views of the Tietê River and urban sprawl as the aircraft descends toward Congonhas. Notable sights include: Serra da Mantiqueira (mountain range to the southeast), Tietê River (winding through São Paulo city), Atlantic Plateau escarpment (western horizon), São Paulo urban grid (sprawling cityscape).
How long is the flight from Montreal to Sao Paulo?
The flight from Montreal International Mirabel (YMX) to Congonhas (CGH) takes about 8 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,088 miles (8,189 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Montreal to Sao Paulo flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean for approximately 4,000 nautical miles. Notable features include the Appalachian Mountains visible during the northeastern US portion of climb-out, the Atlantic coastline near Newfoundland, the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (not visible but the aircraft passes over deep ocean), and the Brazilian coastline near Rio de Janeiro during descent. The flight typically passes east of the Caribbean and north of the Amazon Basin.