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FCO → BHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome) to Birmingham International Airport (Birmingham)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the most dramatic peaks of the Swiss Alps, including the Matterhorn, and provides better views of the Italian interior and English countryside during the descent.
Central Apennines
The rugged mountain spine of Italy visible as the plane climbs and heads northwest.
Florence & Tuscany
View the iconic terracotta roofs of Florence and the rolling Chianti hills to the east.
Pennine Alps
A spectacular panorama of the highest Swiss peaks, including the unmistakable pyramid of the Matterhorn.
Burgundy Vineyards
The geometric patterns of world-famous French vineyards stretching across the central plains.
The Cotswolds
Classic English 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty' with golden stone villages visible during the descent into BHX.
The right side is the 'mountain side' for this route, offering a sustained view of the Swiss Alpine range. For the best photography, an afternoon flight is ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the peaks and the English countryside with a warm glow.
Tuscan Archipelago
Clear views of the islands of Giglio and Elba dotting the Tyrrhenian Sea shortly after departure.
Ligurian Coastline
The dramatic meeting of the mountains and the sea along the Italian Riviera.
Mont Blanc
An unparalleled view of the highest peak in the Alps as you cross the French-Italian border.
Paris Cityscape
On clear days, the sprawl of Paris and the distinctive loop of the Seine are visible to the west.
The Solent
Views of the Isle of Wight and the busy shipping lanes of the English Channel upon entering UK airspace.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see Mont Blanc and the French capital. If you are flying in the late afternoon, the sun will be on this side, which may cause glare; choose a morning flight for the best lighting on the landscape below.
Distance: 1,583 km (984 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 7 min
Departure: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Arrival: BHX (52.4538993835, -1.7480299472799998)
Route Type: International
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