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FCO → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers unparalleled views of the Caucasus Mountains and a more dramatic perspective of the vast Gobi Desert as the aircraft enters Chinese airspace.
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The Alps
Distant views of the snowy peaks of the Italian and Austrian Alps shortly after departure.
Black Sea North Coast
The deep blue expanse of the Black Sea contrasting with the rugged coastline of Georgia.
Caucasus Mountains
Breathtaking views of Mount Elbrus and the high-altitude peaks between Europe and Asia.
Caspian Sea
Crossing the world's largest inland sea, showing unique coastal formations and oil rigs.
Gobi Desert
A vast landscape of reddish sands and unique rock formations during the final hours of the flight.
On this eastbound route, a window seat on the left side (facing north) avoids direct sun glare for most of the journey, making it easier to see and photograph the terrain. If you are on an overnight flight, the sunrise typically occurs over the Caspian Sea or Central Asia on this side. Winter flights offer the best views of the Caucasus, as the snow coverage is much more prominent and visually striking from above.
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Adriatic Coastline
Early views of the sparkling Adriatic Sea and the many islands along the Croatian coast.
Anatolian Plateau
The rugged, ancient terrain of central Turkey featuring volcanic landscapes and high plateaus.
Central Asian Deserts
The golden sands of the Kyzylkum Desert in Uzbekistan and southern Kazakhstan.
Beijing Approaches
A great view of the expanding Beijing metropolitan area and surrounding industrial zones during descent.
The Great Wall
Potential sightings of the western and northern sections of the Great Wall hidden in the mountains.
The right side offers excellent views of the Mediterranean and Balkan regions early in the flight. However, be aware that you will be facing south, which can lead to significant cabin heat and glare from the sun during the day. For the approach into Beijing Capital (PEK), the right side often provides a clearer view of the city center if the aircraft lands from the south. Keep an eye out for the yellow-brown landscapes of the loess plateau over northern China.
Book Hotels in BeijingDistance: 8,148 km (5,063 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 35 min
Departure: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: International
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