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CTA → OTP
Which side of the plane to sit from Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (Catania) to Henri Coandă International Airport (Bucharest)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an iconic perspective of Mount Etna immediately after takeoff from Catania and provides the most dramatic views of the Balkan mountain ranges with optimal lighting.
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Mount Etna
Europe's tallest and most active volcano, dominating the Sicilian landscape immediately after departure.
Calabrian Coastline
The rugged 'toe' of Italy featuring steep cliffs and the turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Balkan Mountains
Expansive views of the jagged peaks across Montenegro, Serbia, and Bulgaria during the mid-flight cruise.
Sofia Valley
Distantly glimpse the Bulgarian capital nestled within its mountain-ringed basin.
Wallachian Plain
The vast, golden agricultural heartland of southern Romania stretching toward the horizon on approach.
Secure a seat forward of the wing for the best view of Mount Etna right after takeoff. On morning flights, the sun will be behind the aircraft on this side, ensuring vivid colors and clear photos of the Balkan terrain. Keep your window shade up for the first 15 minutes and the final 25 minutes of the flight.
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Ionian Sea
Deep blue Mediterranean vistas as the flight crosses from Sicily toward the Balkan Peninsula.
Salento Peninsula
A clear view of the 'heel' of Italy, including the white-washed coastal towns of Puglia.
Dinaric Alps
Dramatic limestone mountain ranges visible as the aircraft traverses the Adriatic coastline area.
Danube River
The massive waterway marking the border between Bulgaria and Romania, often reflecting the sunlight.
Bucharest Outskirts
Views of the growing suburban landscape and industrial parks surrounding the Romanian capital.
The right side is excellent for sunset flights, as you'll see the orange glow over the Mediterranean and Balkan landscapes. Look out for the Salento Peninsula about 20-30 minutes into the flight. When approaching Bucharest from the west, the Danube River will be a major landmark to spot from this side.
Book Hotels in BucharestDistance: 1,214 km (754 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 37 min
Departure: CTA (37.466801, 15.0664)
Arrival: OTP (44.5711111, 26.085)
Route Type: International
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