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IAD destination photo
PTY destination photo

IAD โ†’ PTY

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior sequence of views, including the Atlantic coastline, the stunning turquoise waters of the Bahamas, and the iconic Panama City skyline upon arrival.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
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Northern Virginia & Potomac

Aerial perspectives of the Potomac River and the outskirts of the U.S. capital immediately after takeoff from Dulles.

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The Outer Banks

A view of the thin, sandy barrier islands of North Carolina as the flight tracks south along the Eastern Seaboard.

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Bahamian Cays

Vibrant turquoise waters and coral formations of the Great Bahama Bank, typically visible mid-flight.

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Caribbean Sea

Expansive views of the deep blue Caribbean and scattered tropical reefs as you approach Central America.

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Panama City Skyline

The dramatic 'Miami of the South' skyscraper cluster during the final descent into Tocumen.

For the best view of the Bahamas, choose a morning flight to have the sun behind the plane, reducing glare on the water. On the approach to PTY, the left side is the prime spot to see the dense skyscraper wall of the city as the aircraft banks for its final turn.

Right Side Highlights
8.0
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Appalachian Foothills

The rolling green ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains are visible to the west during the initial cruise phase.

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Florida Peninsula

A panoramic view of the Florida landmass, often including glimpses of the Everglades and the Gulf Coast.

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Panama Canal & Gatun Lake

The engineering marvel of the canal and the massive man-made Gatun Lake are frequently visible on the descent.

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Soberanรญa National Park

The lush, dense tropical rainforest canopy that borders the canal zone as you enter Panamanian airspace.

Sit on the right if you are an engineering enthusiast; this side provides the best chance to spot the Panama Canal and the locks from a distance before the plane aligns with the runway. Afternoon flights may experience some sun glare on this side during the southbound leg.

Top Activities in Panama City
Route Information

Distance: 3,327 km (2,067 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 55 min

Departure: IAD (38.94449997, -77.45580292)

Arrival: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)

Route Type: International

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