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BHX → FCO
Which side of the plane to sit from Birmingham International Airport (Birmingham) to Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior perspective of the high Swiss and Italian Alps peaks and is strategically positioned for the best views of Rome's historic center during the typical landing approach.
Cotswolds and South England
Aerial views of the rolling green hills of the English countryside and the Thames Valley shortly after departure.
Champagne Region
Fly over the neatly patterned vineyards of eastern France, famous for the world's most celebrated sparkling wine.
The High Alps
Breathtaking views of the snow-capped Swiss and Italian Alps, often including landmarks like the Matterhorn or Monte Rosa.
Italian Lakes
Glimpses of deep blue alpine lakes such as Lake Como or Lake Maggiore as the flight enters Italian airspace.
Rome Cityscape
During the final descent into FCO, this side offers the highest probability of spotting the Vatican and the Colosseum.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. The Alps usually appear roughly 60-70 minutes after takeoff. For the best view of Rome, look out during the final 10 minutes of flight as the plane maneuvers toward the runway.
English Channel
View the narrowest point of the Channel and the heavy maritime traffic moving through the Dover Strait.
Distances of Paris
On clear days, the distinctive sprawl of the French capital and the Eiffel Tower may be visible on the horizon.
Mont Blanc Massif
A spectacular view toward Western Europe's highest peak located on the border of France and Italy.
Island of Elba
As you descend along the Italian coast, look for this historic island where Napoleon was famously exiled.
Tyrrhenian Coastline
Stunning views of the rugged Tuscan and Lazio coastlines and the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea. If the flight path takes a more westerly route, you will have a front-row seat to the French Alps. Ensure your window is clear of frost for the best mountain photography.
Distance: 1,583 km (984 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 7 min
Departure: BHX (52.4538993835, -1.7480299472799998)
Arrival: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Route Type: International
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