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MAD → CTA
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (Catania)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the preferred choice for this route, primarily for the spectacular and rare close-up views of Mount Etna and the volcanic Aeolian Islands during the descent into Sicily.
Spanish Meseta
Expansive views of the high plateau and rugged terrain of central Spain shortly after takeoff.
Northern Balearics
Distant views of the turquoise waters surrounding the northern coasts of Menorca and Mallorca.
Aeolian Archipelago
Visible to the north of Sicily, these volcanic islands include the smoking cones of Vulcano and Lipari.
Mount Etna
A dramatic, high-altitude perspective of Europe's most active volcano, often featuring visible steam plumes.
Ionian Sea
The deep blue expanse of the sea as the aircraft banks for its final approach into Catania.
To see Mount Etna, look out the window about 20 minutes before landing. If the flight arrives in the afternoon, the sun will be behind the aircraft, providing perfect front-lighting for photos of the volcano. Avoid seats over the wing (rows 12-22) to ensure an unobstructed view of the volcanic craters.
Valencia Coastline
Views of the 'City of Arts and Sciences' and the busy port as you leave the Spanish mainland.
Mallorca and Ibiza
Direct aerial views of the Balearic Islands' jagged coastlines and mountain ridges mid-flight.
Southern Sardinia
The wild, rocky southern tip of the island near Cagliari is often visible across the Mediterranean.
Sicilian Interior
Vistas of the rolling hills, olive groves, and agricultural landscapes of central Sicily during descent.
Catania Cityscape
A final look at the baroque architecture and urban sprawl of Catania nestled at the foot of the mountains.
The right side is excellent for viewing the Balearic Islands early in the flight. On morning flights, be aware that the southern sun will be on this side, which can cause significant glare on the window; keep your shade partially closed until you reach the islands.
Distance: 1,642 km (1,020 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: CTA (37.466801, 15.0664)
Route Type: International
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