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LYS → CTA
Which side of the plane to sit from Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon) to Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (Catania)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled view of the Aeolian Islands and the majestic Mount Etna, which serves as the spectacular climax of the descent into Sicily.
Corsica & Sardinia
Spot the mountainous outlines of these Mediterranean islands appearing on the horizon across the blue Tyrrhenian Sea.
Aeolian Archipelago
Look down upon the volcanic islands of Stromboli, Vulcano, and Lipari rising sharply from the sea as you approach Sicily.
Mount Etna
The star of the flight; experience a close-up view of Europe's most active volcano, often trailing a plume of smoke from its summit.
Taormina Coastline
As the plane begins its final descent, the ancient hillside town of Taormina and its rocky coves become visible below.
Catania Cityscape
A panoramic view of the 'Black City' built from lava stone, set against the backdrop of the Ionian Sea.
The right side is the definitive choice for the 'Etna experience.' Ensure your window is clear about 20 minutes before landing, as the approach path often circles the volcano, offering breathtaking scale. Late afternoon flights provide a golden hue over the volcanic craters, making for incredible photos.
French & Italian Alps
Shortly after takeoff from Lyon, witness the dramatic snow-capped peaks of the Alps, including the distant silhouette of Mont Blanc.
Po Valley & Piedmont
Observe the vast, geometric patterns of the Italian agricultural heartland and the industrial sprawl of Turin.
Mount Vesuvius
On clear days, the perfectly formed volcanic cone and the densely populated Bay of Naples are visible to the east.
Amalfi Coast & Cilento
A stunning perspective of the rugged, jagged coastline and turquoise waters of Southern Italy's most famous shores.
Strait of Messina
View the narrow passage of water that separates the 'toe' of Italy from the island of Sicily.
The left side is superior for tracking the geography of the Italian mainland. Opt for a morning flight to have the sun behind you, which provides the best lighting for photography of the Alps and Vesuvius. This side is ideal for those who enjoy identifying coastal landmarks and mountain ranges.
Distance: 1,236 km (768 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min
Departure: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)
Arrival: CTA (37.466801, 15.0664)
Route Type: International
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