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MAD → CIA
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport (Rome)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior sequence of landmarks, including the rugged interior of Spain, the dramatic northern coastline of Corsica, and a high probability of seeing Rome's historic center and the Vatican during the descent into Ciampino.
Madrid Metropolitan Area
Aerial views of the Spanish capital's grid and the Cuatro Torres Business Area immediately after takeoff from Barajas.
Serranía de Cuenca
Dramatic karst formations and deep river canyons visible as the plane crosses the eastern edge of the Spanish Meseta.
Gulf of Lion
Expansive views of the deep blue Mediterranean Sea where the Spanish and French coastlines meet.
Corsican Peaks
The snow-capped granite mountains of northern Corsica, including Monte Cinto, provide a stunning mid-flight landmark.
Isle of Elba
Clear views of the Tuscan Archipelago's largest island, famous for Napoleon's exile.
Rome City Center
On many approach patterns to CIA, the left side provides a breathtaking view of the Colosseum, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Tiber River.
To maximize views, choose a seat in front of the wing. On morning flights, the sun will be on the right side, providing perfectly front-lit views of the Italian coast. Watch closely during the final 10 minutes of flight; if the plane approaches from the north, the city of Rome is most visible from this side.
Balearic Islands
Distant but clear views of Ibiza and Mallorca shimmering in the Mediterranean to the south.
Mediterranean Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the sea horizon, often featuring merchant ships and ferries on the transit routes to Africa.
Northern Sardinia
The rugged coastline of the Gallura region and the Emerald Coast visible as the flight path tracks between the islands.
Pontine Islands
Small volcanic archipelagos like Ponza and Ventotene appearing as jewels in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Lake Albano
A stunning volcanic crater lake located in the Alban Hills, very close to the final approach path into Ciampino.
The right side is excellent for catching the sunset on evening flights. As the plane nears Rome, look for the Castel Gandolfo (the Pope's summer residence) overlooking Lake Albano. Note that the afternoon sun can be quite intense on this side, so window shades may be necessary during the cruise phase.
Distance: 1,359 km (844 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 49 min
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: CIA (41.7994, 12.5949)
Route Type: International
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