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OTP → FCO
Which side of the plane to sit from Henri Coandă International Airport (Bucharest) to Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (Rome)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring the dramatic Southern Carpathian mountains, the famous Iron Gates of the Danube, and an unparalleled view of the Croatian archipelago's islands scattered across the turquoise Adriatic.
Transylvanian Alps
Immediately after takeoff, witness the snow-capped Southern Carpathians rising sharply from the Wallachian plains.
The Iron Gates
A spectacular gorge system where the Danube cuts through the Carpathian and Balkan mountains at the Romania-Serbia border.
Dalmatian Islands
A stunning mosaic of hundreds of Croatian islands like Hvar and Brač set against the deep blue Adriatic Sea.
Croatian Coastline
The white limestone cliffs of the Dalmatian coast provide a sharp, beautiful contrast to the turquoise coastal waters.
Rome Approach
During the final descent, enjoy views of the Tiber River and the northern outskirts of the Eternal City.
The right side is the clear winner for coastal geography. Aim for a mid-morning flight to get the best lighting on the Croatian islands without the afternoon sun reflecting off the sea. If the flight approaches FCO from the north, you may even catch a glimpse of the Tyrrhenian coastline near Civitavecchia.
Danube River Path
Follow the winding silver ribbon of the Danube which marks the border between Romania and Bulgaria for much of the early flight.
Belgrade Outskirts
Look south for views of the Serbian capital's urban sprawl and the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers.
Montenegrin Highlands
Rugged views of the Durmitor National Park and the high limestone peaks of the Dinaric Alps in the distance.
Gargano Peninsula
The 'spur' of the Italian boot becomes visible as you cross the Adriatic, characterized by its green forests and white cliffs.
Lazio Countryside
Rolling hills and small Italian towns of the Lazio region appear during the descent into Fiumicino.
Sit on the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. This side is ideal for spotting the Gargano Peninsula landmark, which signals your arrival in Italian airspace. Keep an eye out for the southern stretches of the Apennine Mountains just before the descent begins.
Distance: 1,162 km (722 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 33 min
Departure: OTP (44.5711111, 26.085)
Arrival: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)
Route Type: International
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