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BDS destination photo
CIA destination photo

BDSCIA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior panorama of the rugged Apennine mountain range and a more direct view of the historic center of Rome during the standard approach into Ciampino.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏝️

Gargano Peninsula

The 'spur' of Italy's boot is visible to the north, jutting out into the deep blue of the Adriatic Sea.

🏔️

Central Apennines

Stunning vistas of the snow-capped Majella and Gran Sasso massifs, providing some of Italy's most dramatic mountain scenery.

🚜

Tavoliere delle Puglie

The vast, golden checkerboard of Italy's second-largest plain, famous for its extensive wheat fields and agriculture.

🏛️

Rome City Center

During the final descent into Ciampino, look forward and right to see the Colosseum, Altare della Patria, and St. Peter's Basilica.

This is the preferred side for photographers. To capture the Apennine peaks clearly, morning flights provide the best front-lighting. During the approach to Runway 33 (the most common landing direction from the south), the right side provides the iconic view of the Rome skyline. Keep your camera ready as soon as the plane begins its final descent over the Lazio countryside.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Salento Coastline

Immediate views of the turquoise Adriatic waters and the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Apulian coast upon takeoff.

🏔️

Pollino Massif

In the far distance to the southwest, the highest peaks of the southern Apennines are visible on clear days.

🌋

Mount Vesuvius

As the flight crosses the peninsula, the silhouette of the famous volcano near Naples can often be spotted on the horizon.

💧

Lake Albano

Just before landing, view the volcanic crater lake and the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo nestled in the Alban Hills.

Choose this side for softer lighting during morning flights and to avoid the direct glare of the southern sun. It is particularly scenic during the final three minutes of the flight when passing over the Castelli Romani volcanic area. If landing on Runway 15, this side may also catch a glimpse of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Top Activities in Rome
Route Information

Distance: 465 km (289 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 47 min

Departure: BDS (40.6576, 17.947001)

Arrival: CIA (41.7994, 12.5949)

Route Type: Domestic

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