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CTA → GOA
Which side of the plane to sit from Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (Catania) to Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (Genoa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unparalleled sequence of Italy's most iconic geological features, including a close-up of Mount Etna at takeoff and the dramatic coastline of the Italian mainland throughout the flight.
Mount Etna
Immediately after takeoff, witness the massive, often smoking summit of Europe's highest active volcano dominating the Sicilian landscape.
Strait of Messina
The narrow water gap separating Sicily from the 'toe' of Italy's boot, showcasing the proximity of the two landmasses.
Mount Vesuvius
As you pass the Campania region, the perfect cone of Vesuvius and the sprawling city of Naples are visible on the horizon.
Lazio Coastline
The route tracks past the Roman coast, where you can often spot the mouth of the Tiber River and the Fiumicino area.
Tuscan Archipelago
Aerial views of Elba Island and the smaller islands like Giglio dotting the turquoise waters off the coast of Tuscany.
Apennine Mountains
Watch the dramatic meeting point where the rugged Apennine range drops sharply into the Ligurian Sea near the end of the journey.
For the absolute best experience, book a window seat on the right side for a morning flight. You will have the sun behind you, perfectly illuminating Mount Etna and the mainland coast. Keep your camera ready within the first 10 minutes for the best shots of Etna's craters.
Aeolian Islands
Look for the distinctive volcanic cones of Vulcano and Lipari rising from the Tyrrhenian Sea shortly after departure.
Tyrrhenian Sea
Expansive views of the deep blue Mediterranean waters often featuring cargo ships and ferries on major shipping lanes.
Corsica Skyline
On clear days, the rugged, mountainous silhouette of the French island of Corsica is visible far to the west.
Portofino Peninsula
As the plane descends toward Genoa, catch a glimpse of the exclusive and lush green headlands of the Ligurian coast.
Genoa Port
A view of the extensive industrial port and the iconic 'Lanterna' lighthouse during the final approach into GOA.
Choose the left side for better lighting during afternoon flights to avoid the direct southern sun. It offers a more serene, maritime perspective and better views of the Aeolian volcanic chain if the flight path is slightly more westward.
Distance: 932 km (579 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 33 min
Departure: CTA (37.466801, 15.0664)
Arrival: GOA (44.4133, 8.8375)
Route Type: Domestic
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