Loading map...
LCY → FCO
Which side of the plane to sit from London City Airport (London) to Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior combination of iconic London landmarks upon departure from the steep LCY runway, the most concentrated views of the Swiss Alps' highest peaks, and the highly coveted aerial view of Rome's historic center and the Vatican during the standard northern approach into Fiumicino.
London Financial District
Unrivaled views of Canary Wharf, The Shard, and the City of London immediately after the steep takeoff from LCY.
Swiss Alps Massif
A breathtaking panorama of the Valais Alps, often including clear views of the Matterhorn's distinct pyramid shape.
Champagne Region
The meticulously organized grid-like patterns of the French vineyards around Reims and Epernay.
Lake Maggiore
The transition from the high peaks to the Italian Lake District, featuring the Borromean Islands.
The Eternal City
On the 'Baccano' arrival into FCO, the left side typically looks directly down onto St. Peter's Square and the Colosseum.
Book a window seat in the front half of the cabin to avoid wing obstruction of the Alps. For morning flights, the sun will be on the left, so wear sunglasses. If departing LCY on Runway 27, the bank over Central London is one of the best views in commercial aviation. Keep your camera ready as soon as the landing gear retracts.
The O2 and Greenwich
A perfect bird's-eye view of the Millennium Dome and the historic Royal Observatory on the Prime Meridian.
Mont Blanc
The highest peak in Western Europe often stands out to the west of the flight path during the Alpine crossing.
Elba and Giglio Islands
Vivid turquoise waters and rugged island terrain as the flight reaches the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Port of Civitavecchia
The massive maritime hub for Rome, where several of the world's largest cruise ships are often docked.
Lazio Coastline
A long stretch of Mediterranean beaches and the pine forests of the Castelporziano reserve just before landing.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Tyrrhenian Sea. It also provides a better view of the Tuscan archipelago. If the wind requires an approach from the south, the right side will see the Roman coast first. Use the flight map to time your view of Mont Blanc as you exit French airspace.
Distance: 1,421 km (883 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 54 min
Departure: LCY (51.505299, 0.055277999999999994)
Arrival: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.