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CTA → BCN
Which side of the plane to sit from Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (Catania) to Barcelona International Airport (Barcelona)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is significantly more scenic, providing an iconic view of Mount Etna immediately after takeoff and the famous grid-patterned streets of Barcelona during arrival.
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Mount Etna
Breathtaking views of the smoking craters and lava fields of Europe's most active volcano.
Aeolian Islands
Spot the volcanic cones of Stromboli and Vulcano rising from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the north.
The Pyrenees
On clear days, the snow-capped mountain range to the north is visible during the cruise phase.
Costa Brava
The rugged 'Wild Coast' of Catalonia appears with its turquoise bays as you descend.
Barcelona Skyline
The best view of the Sagrada Família and the perfectly aligned blocks of the Eixample district.
The right side is essential for the Etna view; try to sit behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the volcano. For the arrival into BCN, the plane usually flies parallel to the coast, making the right side the only way to see the city center. Morning flights offer the best light for photographing the Sicilian coast.
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Central Sicily
Vast agricultural landscapes and the rolling yellow and green hills of the island's interior.
Southern Sardinia
Potential views of the Sardinian coastline and the capital city of Cagliari's harbor.
Barcelona Port
One of the largest Mediterranean ports, filled with massive cruise ships and container terminals.
Montjuïc Hill
The historic fortress and botanical gardens overlooking the sea just before touchdown.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun reflecting off the Mediterranean. On the final approach, keep your camera ready for the contrast between the blue sea and the industrial port of Barcelona. Watch for the salt pans of Sardinia roughly 45 minutes into the flight.
Get eSIMs for Italy
Get eSIMs for SpainDistance: 1,193 km (741 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: CTA (37.466801, 15.0664)
Arrival: BCN (41.2971, 2.07846)
Route Type: International
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