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ATL → FCO
Which side of the plane to sit from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta) to Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for transatlantic flights from the U.S. to Europe as it offers the potential to view the Aurora Borealis over the North Atlantic and provides a more dramatic sun-illuminated perspective of the Alps during the morning arrival.
Northeast Corridor
Aerial views of the glowing metropolitan lights of Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City during the initial flight phase.
Aurora Borealis
A high probability of spotting the Northern Lights during the dark hours of the North Atlantic crossing, especially in winter.
Newfoundland Coastline
The rugged and icy edges of Eastern Canada as the flight exits the North American continent.
The Western Alps
Breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif and the snow-capped peaks of the French-Italian border during the morning descent.
Civitavecchia Port
The historic port of Rome and the Tyrrhenian coastline visible just before the final approach into FCO.
To maximize views, select a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. For the best Aurora sightings, keep your window shade open and the cabin lights off during the middle 4 hours of the flight. Upon arrival, the left side catches the morning sun reflecting off the Mediterranean.
Atlanta Skyline
Excellent views of downtown Atlanta, Buckhead, and the dense forest canopy of Georgia immediately after takeoff.
French Countryside
The patchwork of agricultural fields and rolling hills of central and southern France during the mid-morning transit.
Central Alps
Distant but clear views of the Swiss Alps, including the iconic Matterhorn, depending on the specific flight corridor.
Lake Bracciano
A beautiful volcanic crater lake located north of Rome, often used as a waypoint for landing patterns.
Ancient Rome
If the wind dictates a northern approach (Runway 16), passengers may see the Vatican and the historic center of Rome.
The right side will be the 'sunny' side for the duration of the morning flight into Italy. While this offers bright landscape views of France, it can make viewing difficult without sunglasses. This side is ideal for spotting the suburbs of Rome and the Tiber River during the final seconds of flight.
Distance: 8,085 km (5,024 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 31 min
Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Arrival: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Route Type: International
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