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ADZ → PTY
Which side of the plane to sit from Gustavo Rojas Pinilla International Airport (San Andres Island) to Tocumen International Airport (Panama City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the most iconic views of the San Andres reef system upon departure and a superior perspective of the Panama Canal locks and the Pacific entrance during the approach to PTY.
Sea of Seven Colors
Breathtaking gradients of turquoise and deep blue over the southern coral reefs of San Andres.
Gatun & Agua Clara Locks
A bird's-eye view of the massive concrete chambers that lift container ships between the Atlantic and Gatun Lake.
Canal Ship Queue
Scores of cargo ships anchored in the Bay of Panama waiting for their scheduled transit through the canal.
Panama City Skyline
Dramatic views of the Punta Paitilla and Costa del Este skyscrapers as the plane descends towards the coast.
The right side is the clear winner for landmark spotting. Choose this side for the best chance to see the Panama Canal's engineering marvels. Morning flights are particularly scenic as the sun illuminates the Panamanian coast and the rainforest. Be ready with your camera about 15-20 minutes before landing for the Canal locks.
San Andres Town Center
Aerial view of the northern tip of the island, including the main urban area and the airport runway.
Port of Colon
As the plane approaches Panama, the busy Atlantic shipping hub and the entrance to the Canal are visible.
Chagres National Park
Expansive views of the dense tropical rainforest that provides the essential water for the Panama Canal operations.
Tocumen International
If the flight pattern circles, you may see the modern terminals of PTY before the final turn for landing.
Sit on the left for a close-up of the San Andres urban center immediately after takeoff. On the approach to Panama, this side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun over the Pacific. Keep an eye out for the Gatun Dam, which created the lake powering the canal.
Distance: 466 km (290 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 47 min
Departure: ADZ (12.5836, -81.7112)
Arrival: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Route Type: International
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