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CTA → CGN
Which side of the plane to sit from Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (Catania) to Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to Mount Etna immediately after takeoff, followed by a stunning coastal run past Vesuvius and the high peaks of the Western Alps.
Mount Etna
Europe's highest and most active volcano towers over the departure path, often seen venting steam.
Aeolian Islands
The volcanic archipelago including Stromboli is visible shortly after leaving the Sicilian coast.
Tyrrhenian Coast
Views of the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the historic Roman coastline.
Western Alps
Spectacular views of high-altitude glaciers and iconic peaks like Mont Blanc as you cross into Central Europe.
Upper Middle Rhine Valley
As the descent begins, look for the UNESCO-listed gorge featuring numerous medieval castles.
Sit on the left for the best view of Etna upon departure. On morning flights, the sun will be on the right side of the plane, giving the left side perfectly lit landscapes and better photo opportunities without glare. Look out for the distinct shape of Lake Geneva if the flight path takes a more westerly route.
Taormina Coastline
A beautiful view of the 'Pearl of the Ionian Sea' and its ancient theater shortly after takeoff.
The Apennines
The rugged limestone 'spine' of Italy provides a dramatic backdrop throughout the mid-flight segment.
Lake Constance
The massive 'Bodensee' marking the border between Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.
Black Forest
Dense evergreen forests and rolling hills of Southwestern Germany during the cruise phase.
Siebengebirge
The 'Seven Hills' near Bonn, including the famous Drachenfels, visible during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for spotting the Italian Adriatic coast in the distance and the eastern Alpine massifs. If landing at CGN from the south, the right side offers a great view of the city of Bonn and the Rhine river winding toward Cologne. Be aware that afternoon flights will experience significant sun glare on this side.
Distance: 1,616 km (1,004 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 9 min
Departure: CTA (37.466801, 15.0664)
Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)
Route Type: International
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