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FCO → IKA
Which side of the plane to sit from Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome) to Imam Khomeini International Airport (Tehran)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the dramatic Balkan mountain ranges and a spectacular view of the iconic Mount Ararat near the Turkish-Iranian border.
Central Apennines
Dramatic snow-capped ridges of the Gran Sasso d'Italia visible shortly after departing Rome.
Dalmatian Coast
The intricate network of islands and deep blue inlets along the Croatian and Montenegrin shoreline.
Rila & Pirin Ranges
The highest peaks of the Balkan Peninsula, often covered in snow well into the spring months.
Mount Ararat
The legendary twin peaks of Little and Greater Ararat, standing majestically near the border of Turkey, Armenia, and Iran.
Northern Tehran
During the descent into IKA, views of the sprawling capital nestled against the Alborz mountain foothills.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct glare while viewing the Apennines. About 3.5 to 4 hours into the flight, watch closely for Mount Ararat; its prominence makes it unmistakable. During winter months, the Balkan ranges are particularly stunning under heavy snow cover.
Southern Apennines
Distal views of the rugged Italian interior and potentially Mount Vesuvius if the flight path tracks slightly south.
Aegean Sea Vistas
Glimpses of the Greek coastline and northern Aegean islands depending on the specific air corridor.
Taurus Mountains
The massive, jagged limestone peaks that define the southern landscape of the Anatolian plateau.
Lake Van
A massive, soda-lake in eastern Turkey known for its intense turquoise hue and surrounding volcanic peaks.
Zagros Mountains
Spectacular geological folding and desert valley formations as you cross into Iranian territory.
The right side is ideal for capturing the unique colors of Lake Van roughly 45 minutes before entering Iranian airspace. For evening flights, this side offers a beautiful sunset view over the Anatolian plateau. Look for the distinct parallel ridges of the Zagros Mountains during the final hour of the flight.
Distance: 3,424 km (2,128 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 2 min
Departure: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Arrival: IKA (35.416099548339844, 51.152198791503906)
Route Type: International
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