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BCN → CTA
Which side of the plane to sit from Barcelona International Airport (Barcelona) to Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (Catania)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is significantly superior for this route as it provides a spectacular view of the Aeolian Islands and a direct, close-up perspective of Mount Etna during the final descent into Catania.
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Barcelona Skyline
Immediately after takeoff from BCN, enjoy sweeping views of the Eixample district, Sagrada Familia, and the Mediterranean coastline.
Northern Sardinia
Watch for the rugged granite cliffs and turquoise waters of the Costa Smeralda and the Strait of Bonifacio separating Sardinia from Corsica.
Aeolian Islands
As the plane nears Sicily, look for the UNESCO-listed volcanic archipelago, including the distinctive silhouettes of Lipari and Vulcano.
Mount Etna
The star attraction; depending on the approach path, you will fly past Europe's most active volcano, often seeing smoke plumes or lava flows.
Port of Catania
Final views of the historic city center and the bustling industrial port just before touchdown at Fontanarossa.
Book a window seat on the left (usually 'A' seats) for the best views of Etna. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the haze that can build up around the volcano in the afternoon. During winter, look for the striking contrast of snow on the volcanic peak against the blue sea.
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Balearic Sea
Deep blue vistas of the open Mediterranean shortly after departing the Spanish coast.
Mallorca Distant View
On clear days with a southerly flight path, the northern tips of the Balearic Islands may be visible on the horizon.
Central Sardinia
Bird's eye view of the wild, mountainous interior of Sardinia, including the Gennargentu National Park.
Ionian Horizon
Vast views of the Ionian Sea stretching toward Greece as the plane turns for its final approach into Sicily.
The right side is best for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun reflecting off the Mediterranean. While you miss the direct view of Etna, you get a broader perspective of the Sicilian coastline and the vastness of the southern Mediterranean.
Book Hotels in CataniaDistance: 1,193 km (741 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: BCN (41.2971, 2.07846)
Arrival: CTA (37.466801, 15.0664)
Route Type: International
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