Loading map...
FCO → IAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome) to Washington Dulles International Airport (Washington)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior scenery because it typically avoids the direct glare of the sun on this westbound route, providing clear views of the European coast, the rugged terrain of Atlantic Canada, and the densely populated U.S. Northeast corridor including New York City.
Search flights from FCO to IAD
Western Alps
Early in the flight, catch distant glimpses of the glaciated peaks of Switzerland and France.
Normandy Beaches
The historic coastline of northern France, including the famous D-Day beaches and white chalk cliffs.
Emerald Isle
Vibrant green landscapes and the rocky southern coastline of Ireland before heading out over the open ocean.
Newfoundland & Labrador
Rugged Canadian wilderness, deep fjords, and occasionally icebergs in the water near the coastline.
Manhattan Skyline
On clear days, the skyscrapers of New York City and the sprawling Long Island shoreline are visible from cruising altitude.
Philadelphia
The dense urban grid of the 'City of Brotherly Love' and the winding Delaware River shortly before descent.
The right side is highly recommended because it faces north, away from the sun, allowing for comfortable viewing and better photography conditions. Keep your eyes peeled roughly 7 to 8 hours into the flight for the first sight of North America over Newfoundland. The approach usually passes near New York and Philadelphia, providing a spectacular overview of the Eastern Seaboard.
Book Hotels in Washington
Tyrrhenian Coastline
Immediate views of the blue Mediterranean waters and the Italian coast shortly after takeoff from Fiumicino.
Pyrenees Mountains
On more southerly flight tracks, the distant snow-capped peaks of the border between France and Spain are visible.
Chesapeake Bay
During the final descent into Dulles, you can see the vast network of inlets and the iconic Chesapeake Bay Bridge.
D.C. Suburbs
Views of the Potomac River and the sprawling residential areas of Virginia and Maryland as the plane aligns for landing.
The left side is best for passengers who enjoy watching the sunset over the Atlantic horizon during afternoon flights. However, be prepared for significant sun glare for several hours, which can make it difficult to keep window shades open. This side is also excellent for the final approach into IAD if the plane arrives from the south.
Get eSIMs for Italy
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 7,232 km (4,494 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 30 min
Departure: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Arrival: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.