While the landing favors the left, the takeoff from Colombo on the right offers more dramatic and extended coastal scenery. The outbound climb provides better views of Sri Lanka's southwestern coast and the Indian Ocean, making it the stronger choice for the overall journey.
Flight Path
The flight crosses the Arabian Sea for approximately 2.5 hours with no significant landmarks visible—open ocean throughout the middle section. The aircraft will pass south of the Indian subcontinent and west of the Maldives (not visible at cruise altitude). As you approach Cyprus, the eastern Mediterranean becomes visible, with the southern coast of Turkey appearing on the northern horizon during the final descent phase.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpeg?width=600)
_and_the_Dubai_skyline_(25781049892).jpg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from RML
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the southwestern coastline of Sri Lanka as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the Indian Ocean meeting the Colombo coast, with the city sprawling inland. The departure path takes you over the coastal plains before turning toward the Arabian Sea.
Landing at LCA
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Larnaca. You'll see the southern coast of Cyprus, the Larnaca Salt Lake (a distinctive white-rimmed lagoon), and the Mediterranean Sea. The approach path brings these features into clear view on the left side of the aircraft.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
Will your flight be in sunlight?
See exactly which side of the plane gets sun and shade at your departure time.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Colombo Ratmalana (RML) to Larnaca (LCA)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Colombo to Larnaca. While the landing favors the left, the takeoff from Colombo on the right offers more dramatic and extended coastal scenery. The outbound climb provides better views of Sri Lanka's southwestern coast and the Indian Ocean, making it the stronger choice for the overall journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Colombo Ratmalana in Colombo?
During takeoff from Colombo Ratmalana (RML), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the southwestern coastline of Sri Lanka as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the Indian Ocean meeting the Colombo coast, with the city sprawling inland. The departure path takes you over the coastal plains before turning toward the Arabian Sea. Notable sights include: Colombo harbor and port facilities, southwestern Sri Lankan coastline, Indian Ocean, Kelani River delta.
What can I see when landing at Larnaca in Larnaca?
When landing at Larnaca (LCA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Larnaca. You'll see the southern coast of Cyprus, the Larnaca Salt Lake (a distinctive white-rimmed lagoon), and the Mediterranean Sea. The approach path brings these features into clear view on the left side of the aircraft. Notable sights include: Larnaca Salt Lake (white crystalline rim), Mediterranean Sea, Larnaca Bay, southern Cyprus coastline.
How long is the flight from Colombo to Larnaca?
The flight from Colombo Ratmalana (RML) to Larnaca (LCA) takes Approximately 4 hours 45 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Colombo to Larnaca flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Arabian Sea for approximately 2.5 hours with no significant landmarks visible—open ocean throughout the middle section. The aircraft will pass south of the Indian subcontinent and west of the Maldives (not visible at cruise altitude). As you approach Cyprus, the eastern Mediterranean becomes visible, with the southern coast of Turkey appearing on the northern horizon during the final descent phase.