Loading map...
FCO → CAG
Which side of the plane to sit from Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome) to Cagliari Elmas Airport (Cagliari)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a spectacular aerial perspective of the Roman coastline during takeoff and an unparalleled view of the Gulf of Cagliari and Poetto Beach during the final approach.
Lido di Ostia
Aerial view of Rome's primary coastal resort and the mouth of the Tiber River immediately after departure.
Pontine Islands
In the distance, the volcanic archipelago featuring Ponza and Palmarola may be visible over the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Costa Rei
The southeastern coast of Sardinia with its characteristic turquoise waters as the flight begins its descent.
Poetto Beach
Cagliari's famous 8km long urban beach, stretching between the city and the municipality of Quartu Sant'Elena.
Sella del Diavolo
The 'Devil's Saddle' limestone promontory, a landmark icon of the Cagliari skyline visible on final approach.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun while enjoying the coastline. This side is superior for photography during the landing phase as it captures the vibrant blues of the Gulf of Cagliari. Look out for the 'Sella del Diavolo' rock formation approximately 3-5 minutes before touchdown.
Civitavecchia Port
Depending on the departure path, you may see the massive cruise ship terminals of Italy's primary port.
Gennargentu Massif
Views of Sardinia's highest mountain range in the central-eastern part of the island during the descent.
Stagno di Cagliari
The vast wetlands and salt pans surrounding the airport, frequently populated by colonies of pink flamingos.
Macchiareddu-Grogastu
The industrial and logistical landscapes that highlight the modern economic hub of Southern Sardinia.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights, offering views of the sun dipping into the Tyrrhenian Sea. As the plane descends into CAG, keep your eyes on the lagoons (Stagni); you can often see the distinct pink patches of flamingo colonies from several thousand feet up. It offers a more industrial but geographically interesting view of the salt flats.
Distance: 391 km (243 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 39 min
Departure: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Arrival: CAG (39.251499, 9.05428)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.