Loading map...
AUA โ PTY
Which side of the plane to sit from Queen Beatrix International Airport (Oranjestad) to Tocumen International Airport (Panama City)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a spectacular blend of high-altitude coastal mountains, the unique desert-meets-ocean landscape of Colombia's northern tip, and the most iconic views of the Panama City skyline during the final approach.
Aruba's Southern Coast
Aerial views of Oranjestad and the turquoise reef-protected waters as the plane departs Queen Beatrix International.
Guajira Peninsula
The northernmost point of South America, featuring striking orange desert sands contrasting against the deep blue Caribbean Sea.
Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
On clear days, see the world's highest coastal mountain range, with snow-capped peaks rising dramatically near the shoreline.
Panama City Skyline
The dense skyscraper-heavy skyline of Panama City is typically visible during the descent into Tocumen when approaching from the east.
Puente de las Amรฉricas
The historic bridge connecting the two halves of the American continent at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal.
For the best experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Morning flights are ideal to minimize sun glare while viewing the Colombian coastline. Keep your camera ready about 45 minutes into the flight for the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are often visible even above the cloud layer.
San Blas Archipelago
Hundreds of tiny, white-sand islands with palm trees scattered across the Guna Yala territory.
Panama Canal Entrance
The Atlantic entrance of the canal near Colรณn, often filled with large cargo ships waiting to transit.
Open Caribbean Vistas
Deep blue maritime views that transition into vivid turquoise as you approach the Panamanian continental shelf.
Chagres National Park
Vast stretches of untouched tropical rainforest that protect the watershed of the Panama Canal.
The Right side is the winner for island lovers. Ensure you are looking out about 20 minutes before landing to catch the Guna Yala (San Blas) islands. Mid-day flights are best for the right side as the high sun illuminates the coral reefs and turquoise water colors of the archipelago.
Distance: 1,092 km (679 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min
Departure: AUA (12.5014, -70.015198)
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.