The departure from Rio offers more dramatic and iconic scenery with Guanabara Bay and the granite peaks. While the landing approach into Rome provides pleasant views of the Tiber and countryside, the takeoff views are more visually striking and memorable.
Flown GIG to FCO? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Rio De Janeiro to Rome is 5,699 miles (9,172 km), a flight of about 9 hours 30 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean for approximately 5,500 nautical miles. Notable features along the route include the African coast near Dakar or Mauritania (if visible during daylight), the Strait of Gibraltar (narrow passage between Spain and Morocco), the Mediterranean Sea, and the Italian peninsula's western coastline before turning inland toward Rome. Most of the flight occurs over open ocean with limited ground visibility.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from GIG
LEFTLeft side offers immediate views of Guanabara Bay and the dramatic granite peaks of the Serra da Carioca as the aircraft climbs out over Rio. Right side faces inland toward less visually distinctive terrain.
Landing at FCO
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Apennine Mountains and the Tiber River valley as the aircraft descends toward Fiumicino. The approach path from the south brings these features into clear view on the right side of the cabin.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Galeao Antonio Carlos Jobim (GIG) to Fiumicino (FCO)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Rio De Janeiro to Rome. The departure from Rio offers more dramatic and iconic scenery with Guanabara Bay and the granite peaks. While the landing approach into Rome provides pleasant views of the Tiber and countryside, the takeoff views are more visually striking and memorable.
What can I see during takeoff from Galeao Antonio Carlos Jobim in Rio De Janeiro?
During takeoff from Galeao Antonio Carlos Jobim (GIG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers immediate views of Guanabara Bay and the dramatic granite peaks of the Serra da Carioca as the aircraft climbs out over Rio. Right side faces inland toward less visually distinctive terrain. Notable sights include: Guanabara Bay (water body directly below during initial climb), Sugarloaf Mountain and Corcovado Peak (granite monoliths on the western shore of the bay), Christ the Redeemer statue visible atop Corcovado at this altitude.
What can I see when landing at Fiumicino in Rome?
When landing at Fiumicino (FCO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Apennine Mountains and the Tiber River valley as the aircraft descends toward Fiumicino. The approach path from the south brings these features into clear view on the right side of the cabin. Notable sights include: Apennine Mountains (distant ridge on the horizon), Tiber River (winding through the Roman Campagna plain), Rome's urban sprawl and dome of St. Peter's Basilica (visible in clear conditions), Fiumicino airport and Tyrrhenian Sea coastline.
How long is the flight from Rio De Janeiro to Rome?
The flight from Galeao Antonio Carlos Jobim (GIG) to Fiumicino (FCO) takes about 9 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,699 miles (9,172 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Rio De Janeiro to Rome flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Atlantic Ocean for approximately 5,500 nautical miles. Notable features along the route include the African coast near Dakar or Mauritania (if visible during daylight), the Strait of Gibraltar (narrow passage between Spain and Morocco), the Mediterranean Sea, and the Italian peninsula's western coastline before turning inland toward Rome. Most of the flight occurs over open ocean with limited ground visibility.