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FCO → LED
Which side of the plane to sit from Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome) to Pulkovo Airport (St. Petersburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the rugged Apennine Mountains, the heart of the snow-capped Austrian Alps, and the massive Lake Peipus near the Russian border.
Apennine Range
The rugged limestone peaks forming the 'backbone' of Italy shortly after departure.
Venetian Lagoon
The distinctive shapes of Venice and its surrounding islands visible to the east.
Austrian Alps
Direct views over the highest peaks of the Eastern Alps, including the Grossglockner massif.
Warsaw
The sprawling urban landscape of the Polish capital and the Vistula River cutting through it.
Lake Peipus
The immense border lake between Estonia and Russia, often still frozen in early spring.
The most dramatic mountain views occur 45-60 minutes after departure. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the Alps. Keep an eye out for Lake Ladoga to the northeast during the final descent into Pulkovo if the landing pattern brings you from the east.
Tuscan Countryside
Lush rolling hills and historic estates visible immediately after takeoff from Rome.
Central Alps
Spectacular views of glacier-carved valleys and high-altitude peaks near the Swiss-Austrian border.
Prague
The winding Vltava River and the historical core of the Czech capital from high altitude.
Gulf of Finland
The deep blue waters and jagged coastline of the Baltic States during the final hour of flight.
Tallinn Skyline
The medieval spires and modern towers of Estonia's capital visible on the approach to Russia.
Sit forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. For evening flights, this side provides a stunning sunset over the Baltic Sea. During winter, look for the 'white blanket' effect over the plains of the Czech Republic and Poland.
Distance: 2,351 km (1,461 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 8 min
Departure: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Arrival: LED (59.80030059814453, 30.26250076293945)
Route Type: International
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