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FCO → PMO
Which side of the plane to sit from Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome) to Falcone–Borsellino Airport (Palermo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the preferred choice for this route, offering a front-row seat to the volcanic Aeolian Islands, specifically the active crater of Stromboli, and a distant view of Mount Etna during the descent into Sicily.
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Lazio Coastline
View the Roman shoreline and the mouth of the Tiber River shortly after departure from Fiumicino.
Stromboli Volcano
Known as the 'Lighthouse of the Mediterranean,' this active volcano is a stunning sight usually visible on the left wing.
Aeolian Archipelago
The cluster of islands including Panarea, Vulcano, and Lipari creates a beautiful pattern in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Mount Etna
On clear days, Europe's highest active volcano is visible as a massive snow-capped peak to the southeast.
Palermo Cityscape
As the flight descends, you get views of the Sicilian northern coastline and the dense urban sprawl of Palermo.
Sit on the left side and try to book a morning flight to avoid direct sun glare. Keep your eyes peeled about 35-40 minutes after takeoff for the smoking cone of Stromboli. On a clear day, the contrast between the dark volcanic rock and the deep blue sea is breathtaking.
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Pontine Islands
Early in the flight, catch glimpses of Ponza and Ventotene sitting isolated in the Tyrrhenian sea.
Ustica Island
This solitary volcanic island appears as a small green and black dot shortly before the final descent.
San Vito Lo Capo
The white sands and turquoise waters of this famous cape are often visible if the plane approaches from the west.
Zingaro Reserve
Rugged limestone cliffs and hidden coves of Sicily's first nature reserve provide a dramatic coastal backdrop.
Punta Raisi Arrival
The airport is located right on the water's edge, providing a thrilling 'landing on the sea' sensation for right-side passengers.
The right side is excellent for sunset flights, as the sun dips into the Tyrrhenian Sea. It also offers a spectacular view of the rugged Sicilian coastline near San Vito Lo Capo if the plane performs a western approach. Choose a seat behind the wing to ensure the engine does not block the coastal cliffs during landing.
Book Hotels in PalermoDistance: 409 km (254 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 41 min
Departure: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Arrival: PMO (38.175999, 13.091)
Route Type: Domestic
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