Loading map...
AMS → PTY
Which side of the plane to sit from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam) to Tocumen International Airport (Panama City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side typically provides the most iconic views during the approach, including the San Blas archipelago and the Caribbean entrance to the Panama Canal, along with a better angle for the Dutch coastline upon departure.
Search flights from AMS to PTY
Dutch Coastline
Aerial views of the North Sea beaches and the intricate polders of the Netherlands shortly after takeoff.
English Channel
Views of the French coastline and the busy maritime traffic between the UK and mainland Europe.
Caribbean Archipelago
Potential sightings of the Lesser Antilles and Virgin Islands depending on the specific transatlantic track.
San Blas Islands
The stunning Guna Yala islands appear as white-sand dots in turquoise water just before reaching mainland Panama.
Gatun Lake
A clear view of the massive man-made lake that forms a central part of the Panama Canal system.
On this westbound route, the sun will be on the left (south) side for most of the flight, which can cause glare; however, it is essential for the descent. Open your window shades 45 minutes before arrival at PTY to catch the transition from the Caribbean Sea to the lush Isthmus of Panama. Best views are during the daytime KLM service.
Get eSIMs for Netherlands
Get eSIMs for Panama
Land's End
The final glimpse of the European continent over the tip of Cornwall before the Atlantic crossing.
Greater Antilles
Distant views of the mountainous terrain of Puerto Rico or the Dominican Republic to the north.
Caribbean Sea
Vibrant blue waters and the occasional sight of remote coral reefs and tropical weather systems.
Pacific Entrance Ships
If the plane loops around for a northern approach, you may see the massive queue of cargo ships in the Bay of Panama.
Panama City Skyline
The impressive high-rise skyline of Panama City can often be seen in the distance during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for those who prefer to avoid direct sunlight during the long cruise across the Atlantic. It offers a cooler cabin environment and excellent views of the Pacific-side ship anchorage if the pilot performs a standard 'loop' approach into Tocumen from the south.
Book Hotels in Panama CityDistance: 8,813 km (5,476 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 22 min
Departure: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Arrival: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.