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ATL destination photo
FCO destination photo

ATLFCO

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🍑

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.

Top Activities in Rome
Route Information

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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