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CIA → BTS
Which side of the plane to sit from Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport (Rome) to M. R. Štefánik Airport (Bratislava)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior panoramic view of the highest Alpine peaks, the unique geometry of the Venetian Lagoon, and a spectacular aerial perspective of Vienna during the descent into Bratislava.
Umbrian Apennines
Dramatic limestone ridges and deep green valleys of Central Italy shortly after takeoff.
Venetian Lagoon
The distinctive fish-shaped island of Venice and its surrounding salt marshes visible near the Adriatic coast.
Hohe Tauern National Park
Stunning views of Austria's highest glaciated peaks, including the Grossglockner massif.
Vienna Cityscape
A clear view of the Stephansdom and the Danube Canal as the plane descends toward the Slovak border.
Vienna International Airport
Often visible from above as the flight path passes just north of Schwechat.
Choose a window seat in front of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion when photographing the Alps. If flying in the late afternoon, the sun will be behind you, providing perfectly lit landscapes of the mountains and Vienna. Keep your camera ready about 40 minutes into the flight for the best Alpine views.
Gran Sasso d'Italia
The highest peak in the Apennines, Corno Grande, often capped with snow even in late spring.
Adriatic Riviera
The sparkling blue waters and sandy coastline stretching from Ancona toward the Gulf of Trieste.
Lake Neusiedl
The vast, shallow steppe lake straddling the border between Austria and Hungary.
Bratislava Castle
The iconic four-towered fortress and the SNP Bridge (UFO Bridge) during the final approach.
Little Carpathians
Dense forested hills that provide a lush green backdrop just before touchdown at BTS.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to witness the sunrise over the Adriatic. On the final approach into BTS, look for the 'UFO' bridge over the Danube. During winter, the right side provides excellent views of the frozen Lake Neusiedl, which is a significant geographic landmark in the region.
Distance: 796 km (495 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: CIA (41.7994, 12.5949)
Arrival: BTS (48.17020034790039, 17.212699890136722)
Route Type: International
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