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MGA → PTY
Which side of the plane to sit from Augusto C. Sandino (Managua) International Airport (Managua) to Tocumen International Airport (Panama City)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular sequence of landmarks, starting with the iconic twin volcanoes of Ometepe Island and concluding with a panoramic view of the Panama Canal and the Panama City skyline during the descent.
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Ometepe Island
An incredible view of the Concepción and Maderas volcanoes rising perfectly from Lake Nicaragua.
Volcán Barú
Panama's highest peak, often poking through the cloud layer as you cross into Panamanian airspace.
Panama Canal Entrance
The Pacific mouth of the canal, featuring the Bridge of the Americas and waiting cargo ships.
Panama City Skyline
A breathtaking view of the dense 'Miami-style' skyscrapers along the Avenida Balboa.
Taboga Island
Known as the 'Island of Flowers,' this volcanic island is a highlight during the final approach into PTY.
Sit on the right side for the most dramatic scenery. Watch the window within the first 15 minutes of takeoff to catch the Ometepe volcanoes. For the approach into Panama City, the right side typically offers the best view of the Canal and the city's modern architecture. Late afternoon flights provide excellent lighting for photography of the Panama City skyline as the sun sets to the west.
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Lake Nicaragua
Aerial perspective of the vast northern reaches of Central America's largest lake.
Indio Maíz Reserve
Dense, untouched tropical rainforests spanning the border region of Nicaragua and Costa Rica.
Guna Yala
The stunning San Blas archipelago featuring hundreds of tiny coral islands in the Caribbean Sea.
Portobelo Bay
Historic coastal site where Spanish treasure fleets once anchored, visible near the Panamanian coast.
The left side is preferable for spotting the remote Caribbean coastline and the San Blas islands. Be aware that on morning flights, the sun will be on this side of the aircraft, which may cause significant glare and heat. Keep your window shade down until you are over the water for the best viewing conditions.
Get eSIMs for Nicaragua
Get eSIMs for PanamaDistance: 816 km (507 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min
Departure: MGA (12.14150047302246, -86.16819763183594)
Arrival: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)
Route Type: International
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