The left side wins overall because the cruise phase offers a sustained view of the Alps near the Franco-Italian border, a dramatic and clearly visible landmark, while the right side's advantage is limited to the shorter landing sequence near Rome.
Flown LGW to CIA? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
London to Rome is 885 miles (1,424 km), a flight of about 2 hours 25 minutes.
Route crosses central France near Lyon, then the western Alps (Mont Blanc massif visible to the south), before descending over the Po Valley and the Apennines into central Italy.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from LGW
LEFTDeparting Gatwick to the west on runway 26, the aircraft banks south over the Sussex Weald and South Downs before turning toward France, giving left-side passengers a brief view of the rolling downland and the English Channel coastline near Brighton as the climb continues.
Landing at CIA
RIGHTOn approach into Ciampino, aircraft typically descend from the north or northwest over the Tyrrhenian coastline before turning inland toward Rome, putting the coast and the outskirts of Rome's cityscape on the right side of the aircraft.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Gatwick (LGW) to Ciampino (CIA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Rome. The left side wins overall because the cruise phase offers a sustained view of the Alps near the Franco-Italian border, a dramatic and clearly visible landmark, while the right side's advantage is limited to the shorter landing sequence near Rome.
What can I see during takeoff from Gatwick in London?
During takeoff from Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing Gatwick to the west on runway 26, the aircraft banks south over the Sussex Weald and South Downs before turning toward France, giving left-side passengers a brief view of the rolling downland and the English Channel coastline near Brighton as the climb continues. Notable sights include: South Downs, Sussex countryside, English Channel coast near Brighton.
What can I see when landing at Ciampino in Rome?
When landing at Ciampino (CIA), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into Ciampino, aircraft typically descend from the north or northwest over the Tyrrhenian coastline before turning inland toward Rome, putting the coast and the outskirts of Rome's cityscape on the right side of the aircraft. Notable sights include: Tyrrhenian coastline, Rome's southern suburbs, Alban Hills in the distance.
How long is the flight from London to Rome?
The flight from Gatwick (LGW) to Ciampino (CIA) takes about 2 hours 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 885 miles (1,424 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the London to Rome flight path pass over?
Route crosses central France near Lyon, then the western Alps (Mont Blanc massif visible to the south), before descending over the Po Valley and the Apennines into central Italy.