Catania Airport Live Departures
Checking in at Catania Airport
When traveling from Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport (CTA) in Sicily, passengers have the choice of around 100 destinations, the majority of which are located in Europe and Italy. Catania Airport departures should be aware that there are two terminal buildings; Terminal A is used for domestic and international flights (outside the Schengen Zone), whereas Terminal C is used exclusively for Schengen-bound flights.
In Terminal A, there are 50 airline counters where passengers can either check-in in person or drop off their luggage if they have already checked in online. Certain airlines also provide self-check-in kiosks where you can print your own boarding pass and bag tags.
Terminal C is much smaller, with just six airline counters. However, it is still possible to check in online or use the self-check kiosks on arrival. Schengen departures from Catania Airport should keep in mind that counters don’t open until two hours before a flight’s scheduled departure.
Terminal A – The Check-in Hall and Departures lounge is located on Level 1.
Terminal C – The Check-in Hall and Departures lounge is located on the Ground Floor.
*To ensure you get dropped off to the right terminal, check our live flight tracker above to confirm the Catania Airport departures for today.
When to arrive at Catania Airport?
How much time you need at the airport to check in and pass through Security largely depends on your destination and the airline’s recommendation. Catania Airport suggests passengers flying domestically or within the Schengen Zone should arrive 2 hours ahead of their flight’s scheduled departure. For all other international flights, arriving 3 hours in advance is best.
To avoid showing up at the airport too early in the event that your flight has been delayed, be sure to refer to our Catania Airport live departures board for the most up-to-date information.
What’s next?
Once you’ve checked in and dropped off any luggage, make your way to the Security gates with your boarding pass ready to present. Security staff will ask you to remove any metallic objects from your pockets or person, including watches, keys, coins, and lighters, and place them in one of the trays provided.
Furthermore, when traveling from the airport in Catania, departures must also place liquids, gels, creams, or aerosols with a volume of 100 mL or less in a clear sealable bag before putting it in the tray to be scanned. To avoid holding up the line, it’s best to know which items are prohibited in your hand luggage before you arrive at the airport so you can pack them in your checked luggage if needed.
Multiple security lines are usually open at Catania Airport to help keep the flow of passengers moving. The whole process usually takes around 15 minutes, unless you’re flying during the holidays when you can expect a much longer wait.
Passengers departing from Terminal A can use the Fast Track lane to bypass security lines, allowing them more time to relax and browse the stores in the Boarding area.
What to do in Departures at Catania Airport?
Catania Airport has plenty on offer to keep you entertained while you wait to board your flight. You’ll find local and international stores, both boutique and big-brand names, where you can pick up a last-minute gift or grab a memento of your travels. Or, you may like to purchase some duty-free items – just be sure to check the regulations on what you can bring into the country you are traveling to.
The Business Lounge is located just before the Security gates, or you can relax in one of the several cafes, bars, and restaurants. Toilets, currency exchange booths, free WiFi, ATMs, and viewing areas can also be found throughout the terminal.
Options are more limited at Terminal C, however, you can still enjoy a bite to eat and access the free WiFi, toilets, and money exchange services.
*Make sure you know how far it is to your gate by checking a Catania Airport departures map at one of the information points.
**Check out the full range of facilities and services on offer for flight Arrivals at Catania Airport in our complete Catania Airport Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get to Catania Airport?
The quickest and most convenient way to reach the airport from the city center is to take a Catania taxi. Or, for a more personalized service with an English-speaking driver, you can pre-book a Catania Airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.
If you’re on a budget, the AMT Alibus shuttle bus takes around 20 minutes to reach the airport from the historic center, with a stop at Catania Central Train Station on the way.
Otherwise, if you’re being dropped off by a friend or loved one, the Catania Airport departures parking is located in the P1, P3, and P5 car parks where the first 15 minutes are free.