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JFK → PTY
Which side of the plane to sit from John F Kennedy International Airport (New York) to Tocumen International Airport (Panama City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally preferred for this route as it provides the most iconic views of the US East Coast, the stunning Bahamian archipelago, and the best angle for the Panama Canal and Panama City skyline during the descent.
Search flights from JFK to PTY
Manhattan Skyline
Stunning views of the New York City skyscrapers and the Statue of Liberty depending on the departure path.
Outer Banks
The distinctive thin barrier islands of North Carolina stretching along the Atlantic coast.
Andros Island
The largest island in the Bahamas, showcasing intricate tidal creeks and mangrove forests.
Panama Canal
The engineering masterpiece featuring Gatun Lake and the locks connecting two oceans.
Panama City Skyline
A breathtaking view of the dense cluster of skyscrapers and the Pacific entrance to the Canal.
The right side is essential for viewing the Panama Canal. As the plane vectors for landing at PTY, it often flies south over the canal or circles the city, offering a panoramic view of the Bridge of the Americas. For the best experience, choose a seat away from the wing to fully capture the scale of the cargo ships below.
Book Hotels in Panama CityRockaway Peninsula
Immediate views of the New York coastline and the Atlantic horizon after takeoff from JFK.
Great Bahama Bank
Spectacular turquoise water patterns and underwater sand dunes visible from high altitude.
Eastern Cuba
Rugged coastline and mountain ranges near the Holguin and Santiago regions of Cuba.
Guna Yala
Distant glimpses of the San Blas Islands' white sand atolls as you approach the Panamanian coast.
Chagres National Park
Dense, emerald-green tropical rainforests and winding rivers during the final approach into Tocumen.
Opt for the left side on morning flights to keep the sun behind the aircraft, ensuring better lighting for photos of the Caribbean. The left side is particularly good for spotting the deep contrast between the deep ocean and the shallow Bahamian reefs. Look for the San Blas archipelago about 20 minutes before landing.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for PanamaDistance: 3,554 km (2,208 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 11 min
Departure: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Arrival: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Route Type: International
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