Loading map...
CTA β LGW
Which side of the plane to sit from Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (Catania) to London Gatwick Airport (London)?
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.
Mount Etna
Unrivaled views of Europe's most active volcano shortly after departure from Catania.
Aeolian Islands
Aerial view of the volcanic archipelago, including the active smoke plumes of Stromboli.
French Riviera
Glittering coastline views of Nice, Cannes, and the turquoise waters of the CΓ΄te d'Azur.
Mont Blanc
A close-up view of the highest peak in the Alps as you cross from Italy into France.
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.
Mount Vesuvius
Views of the iconic volcano overlooking the Bay of Naples and the ruins of Pompeii.
Rome and the Vatican
Distant but recognizable views of the Italian capital and St. Peter's Basilica.
Swiss Alps
Spiky silhouettes of the Eiger, MΓΆnch, and Jungfrau peaks to the north.
Burgundy Vineyards
The patchwork patterns of France's prestigious wine regions during the mid-flight cruise.
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.
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
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.