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ORD → FCO
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side typically provides the most dramatic scenery, including potential views of the Greenland icecap on northerly tracks and a wider panorama of the snow-capped Alps during the descent toward Italy.
Search flights from ORD to FCO
Chicago Skyline
Aerial views of the Willis Tower and the Lake Michigan shoreline immediately after takeoff from O'Hare.
Greenland Ice Sheet
On northerly Great Circle routes, witness the vast glaciers and rugged fjords of southern Greenland.
Irish Coastline
The first sight of Europe often features the lush green cliffs and rolling hills of Northern Ireland or the Republic.
The Alps
Spectacular views of the Swiss and Austrian Alps, including jagged peaks and glacial lakes, as the plane heads south.
Tuscan Countryside
Rolling hills and vineyards of northern Italy become visible as the flight prepares for its final descent.
Sit on the left (Port) side for the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis during the dark hours of the transatlantic crossing in winter. Ensure your window is clear of frost for the sunrise over the European continent, which typically occurs 1-2 hours before landing. This side is also preferred for seeing the massive scale of the Alps without looking directly into the morning sun.
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Lake Michigan
A sweeping view of the deep blue Great Lake as the aircraft climbs to cruising altitude.
Atlantic Sunrise
The right side offers a direct view of the sun rising over the horizon as the flight approaches Europe.
French Countryside
Beautiful views of the geometric patterns of French farmland and potentially the lights of Paris if on a southern track.
Mont Blanc
If the route passes over the French-Italian border, the highest peak in the Alps is often visible to the south.
Tyrrhenian Sea
During the approach to Fiumicino, enjoy views of the Italian coastline and islands like Elba or the tip of Corsica.
The right side (Starboard) is excellent for sun-seekers, as it will be bathed in light during the morning arrival. If the aircraft approaches FCO from the sea (common with westerly winds), the right side offers the best views of the Mediterranean waves and the beach towns of Fregene and Ostia. Keep your shade down during the middle of the flight to avoid waking neighbors with the early sunrise.
Book Hotels in RomeDistance: 7,742 km (4,811 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 6 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Route Type: International
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