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HHN → CIA
Which side of the plane to sit from Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (Hahn) to Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport (Rome)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is superior for this route as it offers the most direct views of the high Alpine peaks and, crucially, provides a spectacular aerial panorama of Rome's historic center including the Colosseum and Vatican during the final approach into Ciampino.
Middle Rhine Valley
Immediately after departure from HHN, look for the winding Rhine River and its cliffside castles.
Black Forest
Dense, dark evergreen canopies stretching across southwestern Germany.
Central Swiss Alps
A breathtaking crossing of the snow-capped massif, often featuring views of the Jungfrau region.
Tuscan Apennines
The rugged mountain spine of Italy leading into the rolling hills of Tuscany.
Historic Rome
The best views of the Colosseum, Altare della Patria, and the Tiber on the standard approach to CIA.
Sit on the left for a morning flight to avoid the direct southern sun glare. During the descent, keep your camera ready as the plane usually banks over the city, offering a bird's-eye view of the ancient ruins. In winter, the contrast between the dark German landscape and the white Alps is particularly striking.
Vosges Mountains
Rolling French peaks visible across the border shortly after takeoff.
Mont Blanc
Western Europe's highest peak is often visible on the distant horizon to the west.
Ligurian Coast
Glimpses of the Italian Riviera and the Mediterranean sea as you cross the coastline.
Elba Island
The historic site of Napoleon's exile visible in the Tyrrhenian Sea during descent.
Lake Bracciano
A massive, circular volcanic crater lake located just north of Rome.
Choose the right side for sunset flights to enjoy the 'Golden Hour' over the Tyrrhenian Sea. This side is also better if you prefer coastal views over cityscapes, as you will track the shoreline of Italy for a significant portion of the descent.
Distance: 995 km (618 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 40 min
Departure: HHN (49.9487, 7.263889999999999)
Arrival: CIA (41.7994, 12.5949)
Route Type: International
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