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MAN → FCO
Which side of the plane to sit from Manchester Airport (Manchester) to Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior for this route as it provides the most iconic view of Mont Blanc and the dramatic descent along the Tyrrhenian coastline toward Rome.
English Channel
Aerial views of the narrow crossing between the UK and France shortly after departure.
Mont Blanc
The highest peak in Western Europe often appears majestically out of the right-side window.
Ligurian Coast
The stunning Italian Riviera, including the colorful coastlines near Genoa and La Spezia.
Isle of Elba
Look out for Napoleon's island of exile nestled in the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea.
Coastal Approach
Typical landing patterns at FCO involve a scenic turn over the Mediterranean, offering views of the Roman coast.
The right side is the 'money side' for alpine enthusiasts. Ensure you are looking out approximately 60-70 minutes after departure for Mont Blanc. During the descent, the afternoon sun creates a beautiful shimmer on the Tyrrhenian Sea. Use a window seat forward of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the coastline during the final turn into Fiumicino.
Swiss Alps
Panoramic views of the jagged peaks and glaciers of the Swiss Alps as you cross into Italy.
Lake Maggiore
Spot the stunning blue waters of Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands on the Italian border.
Milan Cityscape
Depending on the airway, the sprawling metropolis of Milan and the Po Valley are visible to the east.
Apennine Mountains
The rugged 'spine' of Italy provides a beautiful backdrop during the mid-to-late stage of the flight.
Rome Suburbs
On the final approach, you may catch glimpses of the northern Roman outskirts and the Tiber River winding toward the sea.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare. This side is excellent for seeing the sheer scale of the Alps' eastern expanses and the lush greenery of the Italian interior. Watch for the transition from the snow-capped mountains to the sun-drenched plains of Lombardy.
Distance: 1,677 km (1,042 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 14 min
Departure: MAN (53.35369873046875, -2.2749500274658203)
Arrival: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Route Type: International
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