About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ataturk (IST) to Catania Fontanarossa (CTA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Istanbul to Catania. The right side delivers the spectacular Istanbul departure over the Bosphorus and Sea of Marmara, which is one of the most dramatic urban water views in aviation. During the cruise over the Aegean, the right side also tracks closer to the Greek island chains. The Etna view on landing is compelling but favors the left side, so right wins overall for the departure spectacle alone.
What can I see during takeoff from Ataturk in Istanbul?
During takeoff from Ataturk (IST), sit on the Right side for the best views. Istanbul Ataturk primarily uses runways 06/24 and 18/36. Departing westbound toward the Aegean, the right side gives you the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus strait, and the Istanbul city skyline including the historic peninsula. Left side faces inland toward suburban sprawl. Notable sights include: Bosphorus Strait, Sea of Marmara, Istanbul Historic Peninsula (Sultanahmet/Hagia Sophia area), Prince's Islands.
What can I see when landing at Catania Fontanarossa in Catania?
When landing at Catania Fontanarossa (CTA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Catania Fontanarossa's main runway is oriented roughly 08/26. Aircraft typically approach from the west or northwest, meaning on final approach the left side faces south toward Mount Etna's massive volcanic cone rising above the Sicilian plain. Right side looks out over the Ionian Sea. Notable sights include: Mount Etna volcanic cone, Catania city center and port, Ionian Sea coastline, Sicilian interior plains.
How long is the flight from Istanbul to Catania?
The flight from Ataturk (IST) to Catania Fontanarossa (CTA) takes Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes.
What does the Istanbul to Catania flight path pass over?
The flight tracks southwest over the northern Aegean Sea, passing near the Greek islands of Lemnos and Lesbos, then over the central Aegean with the Cyclades visible in the distance to the south. The route crosses the southern tip of the Greek mainland near Athens before heading over the Ionian Sea and the toe of Italy, then crossing the Strait of Messina before descending toward Sicily. The Strait of Messina and the Calabrian coastline of mainland Italy are briefly visible before the Sicilian coast appears.