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CTA destination photo
LGW destination photo

CTA β†’ LGW

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers an unparalleled perspective of Mount Etna immediately after takeoff, followed by a panoramic cruise along the French Riviera and a direct view of the Mont Blanc massif in the Alps.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
πŸŒ‹

Mount Etna

Unrivaled views of Europe's most active volcano shortly after departure from Catania.

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Aeolian Islands

Aerial view of the volcanic archipelago, including the active smoke plumes of Stromboli.

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French Riviera

Glittering coastline views of Nice, Cannes, and the turquoise waters of the CΓ΄te d'Azur.

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Mont Blanc

A close-up view of the highest peak in the Alps as you cross from Italy into France.

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Paris Basin

The sprawling urban geometry of Paris and its outskirts visible during the descent phase.

Book an 'A' seat for the best volcanic views. If departing in the morning, the sun will be behind you or to your left, providing excellent lighting for the Italian coast. In winter, the snow-capped Alps are particularly vibrant between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
πŸŒ‹

Mount Vesuvius

Views of the iconic volcano overlooking the Bay of Naples and the ruins of Pompeii.

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Rome and the Vatican

Distant but recognizable views of the Italian capital and St. Peter's Basilica.

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Swiss Alps

Spiky silhouettes of the Eiger, MΓΆnch, and Jungfrau peaks to the north.

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Burgundy Vineyards

The patchwork patterns of France's prestigious wine regions during the mid-flight cruise.

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English Channel

Busy shipping lanes and the first glimpse of the UK coastline near Beachy Head.

Choose an 'F' seat to see the Italian mainland and the central Swiss peaks. On the approach to Gatwick, this side often sees the South Downs National Park. Best for sunset flights as the light hits the Apennine mountains to the east.

Top Activities in London
Route Information

Distance: 1,938 km (1,204 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 35 min

Departure: CTA (37.466801, 15.0664)

Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)

Route Type: International

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