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SKG → CIA
Which side of the plane to sit from Thessaloniki Macedonia International Airport (Thessaloniki) to Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport (Rome)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an iconic view of Mount Olympus shortly after takeoff and a spectacular final approach over the volcanic lakes and historic hills southeast of Rome.
Mount Olympus
The legendary home of the Greek gods, visible shortly after departure from Thessaloniki as you fly west.
Epirus Coast
Rugged coastlines and the turquoise waters near the Ionian Sea before crossing into Italy.
The Salento Peninsula
View the 'heel' of the Italian boot, including the cities of Brindisi and Lecce, as you cross the coast.
Pollino Massif
The dramatic, often snow-capped peaks of the Southern Apennines as the flight crosses the Italian interior.
Lake Albano
A stunning volcanic crater lake and the town of Castel Gandolfo visible during the final descent into Ciampino.
Sit on the left and choose a seat behind the wing to see Mount Olympus clearly about 10 minutes into the flight. During the descent into CIA, look for the circular volcanic lakes of the Castelli Romani. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the Greek mountains, while late afternoon flights offer beautiful shadows over the Italian landscape.
Axios Delta
The intricate river systems and wetlands west of Thessaloniki during the initial climb.
Albanian Riviera
Distant but clear views of the high mountains meeting the sea along the coastline of Albania.
Adriatic Expanse
The deep blue waters of the Adriatic Sea as the aircraft transitions from the Balkans to Italy.
Central Apennines
Jagged limestone ridges and high plateaus of central Italy, offering great textures from above.
Tivoli and Roman Countryside
The rolling hills and historic villas of the Lazio region just before the final approach.
The right side is ideal for capturing the sunset over the sea on evening flights. Keep an eye out for the Gargano Peninsula (the 'spur' of Italy) visible in the distance to the north. While you miss the volcanic lakes on this side, you get a broader view of the vast Roman plains and the outskirts of the Eternal City.
Distance: 880 km (547 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min
Departure: SKG (40.51969909667969, 22.97089958190918)
Arrival: CIA (41.7994, 12.5949)
Route Type: International
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